What is dating success? I've been asking myself that question because I've recently devised a programme around dating and wondered how many answers there might be. For instance, does it mean you find the person of your dreams, get married and live happily ever after? Does it mean your date would make a great friend but not lover, or does it mean they'd be perfect for your mate? When I asked a married friend of mine, he said "Dating success? My wife not finding out!" He quickly added he was joking and said that if he was dating again it would be an enjoyable evening with a person knowing that he'd really like to see them again.



Maybe negotiating your way through internet dating and speed dating could be called a success in itself - that's really putting yourself out there! I know people do find the person they're looking for using both, but I've also heard many tales of disappointment and feelings of rejection from friends too.

Whatever dating success means to you, here are 5 tips worth remembering when you're dating.

1. Be sure you remember what success means to you when you go out with someone - have an outcome for the evening.

2. If you want to meet someone who makes you laugh, don't get side-tracked by the fab looking person you've just met with no sense of humour at all.

3. If it's really important to you that the person shares a hobby or pastime, for instance reading, and their favourite read is OK and Hello, ask yourself if that matches what you're looking for.

4. If you absolutely loathe speed dating, for instance, ask yourself if this is really worth putting yourself through and think about what would be the ideal way for you to meet someone.

5. Work on your confidence so you can cope with the ups and downs of dating.