Navigating the dating scene can be like deciphering Morse code, especially when you’re trying to figure out someone’s relationship history. Here are some tell-tale signs that a guy might be new to the whole girlfriend scene:
1. Awkward Around Women
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It’s not just shyness; it’s like he’s trying to solve a Rubik’s cube whenever he interacts with women. If he seems unusually tense or clumsy around the opposite sex, it might be because he’s not used to being in a romantic context.
2. Overthinking Basic Etiquette
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Holding doors open or figuring out the bill can turn into a full-blown strategic operation. It’s not that he’s clueless; he’s just inexperienced and overly concerned about getting it right.
3. Idealizing Relationships
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If he talks about relationships like he’s reciting a Disney script, it’s a red flag. Seeing relationships through rose-colored glasses without acknowledging the work they entail can mean he’s never been in one.
4. Clueless About Women’s Signals
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Flirting, subtle hints, or even direct advances might fly right over his head. It’s not lack of interest; it’s lack of experience in reading those social cues.
5. Overly Invested in Romantic Gestures
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He thinks grand gestures are the key to a woman’s heart, thanks to every rom-com ever. But real relationships aren’t built on constant grandiosity; they’re built on genuine connections.
6. Hesitant to Make the First Move
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It’s not just about respect; it’s uncertainty and fear of rejection magnified by his lack of experience. He might wait for very clear signs before making a move, often missing opportunities.
7. Struggles with Relationship Pacing
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He might either rush into things like there’s no tomorrow or drag his feet because he’s unsure of the ‘right’ timing. Understanding the rhythm of a relationship often comes from experience.
8. Misreads the Seriousness of Conflicts
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Every disagreement might seem like the end of the world to him. Without relationship experience, he might not know how to differentiate between minor issues and deal-breakers.
9. Unsure How to Express Emotions
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He’s either an open book to the point of being overwhelming or so guarded you’d think he’s in witness protection. Striking a balance in emotional openness usually comes with relationship experience.
10. Nervous About Physical Intimacy
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He’s not just respectful; he’s noticeably anxious about making physical contact, even in socially acceptable contexts. It’s like he’s handling fragile glassware whenever there’s an opportunity for a casual touch.
11. Overly Enthusiastic About Common Interests
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Finding something in common might make him overly excited, as he views it as a rare alignment of stars rather than a normal part of getting to know someone.
12. Uncertain About Boundaries
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He might either be too invasive or excessively distant, not understanding where healthy boundaries lie. It’s not about being inconsiderate; it’s about not knowing the norms of personal space in a romantic context.
13. Social Media Naivety
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His idea of interaction might be liking every post from 2013 or awkward comments that miss the mark. It’s not stalking; it’s just not knowing the unspoken rules of digital engagement.
14. Friends Are Overly Involved
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His friends might be coaching him through every step, sometimes even during dates. It’s not a lack of independence; it’s reliance on the only source of relationship advice he thinks he has.
15. Romanticizes Arguments
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He might think that arguing is a sign of passion, thanks to too many dramatic love stories. Understanding that healthy communication is key usually comes with actual relationship experience.
