We may have been to the moon and invented the internet – but when it comes to love, we can still learn some valuable lessons from our more primitive neighbours in the animal kingdom. From swans to wolves, here are seven things we can observe about loyalty, monogamy and responsibility.
Be yourself
You are the best version of you there is, so enjoy being you instead of trying to be something you are not. Look at your pooch for an example – you'll never find him pretending to be a cat!
Be observant
Animals are incredibly observant and use all of their senses, all of the time. This is a good strategy when dating. Be alert: look around you at couples who seem happy and content. How do they interact? Watch people you admire – what is it you like about them? When on a date, mentally step back and observe how it is going from the outside; it might give you a more balanced view.
Enjoy the here and now
Animals have no concept of time passing, only of their present needs and concerns. We humans are often guilty of spoil the moment because we are regretting the past or planning where we want to be in the future. When you're on a date, enjoy it for what it is – that way, it's more likely to lead to something else.
Be tactile
Sometimes human relationships get messy because our speech doesn't match our body language. Animal couples rely much more heavily on physical connection. Take a leaf out of the prairie vole's book – these little rodents are sometimes cited as models for human relationships, grooming and snuggling against each other as well as sharing nesting responsibilities.
Psychtherapist Virginia Satir is often cited as saying human beings need 12 hugs a day for growth, but even those in committed relationships often receive less than half of that. Next time your date or partner seems a bit low, show some affection.
Be playful
If you've ever seen an albatross' ritual dance you'll know it's pretty goofy. But who cares? It works for them. Maintaining a sense of fun and playfulness is essential for a successful relationship. That doesn't have to mean goofy dancing, by the way. Just don't be ruled by schedules, work and responsibilities all the time.
Be patient
Animals can teach us a lot about patience, especially when it comes to courtship. Many of their mating rituals last for hours, days or even months and they will go to any lengths to capture the right mate.
Be adaptable
Animals often adapt to changing circumstances better than human beings do, especially after a long-term relationship comes to an end. If you're looking for dating advice or relationship advice, being adaptable, flexible and open to new experiences is the key to unlocking new romantic opportunities. If an old dog can learn new tricks, so can you.
Author The Dating Diva More
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