I just finished a date that went exceptionally well, and I'm certain a majority of its success is attributed to what I've learned from this community.

I used to be constantly afraid of a woman losing interest, and she inevitably would. Now I realize that my life is in my control, and if I am uninterested in a girl, or vice-versa, it's no sweat. There are plenty of other opportunities.

*At one point during the date, she mentioned that she needed cigarettes, and asked if I would buy her a pack. I jokingly replied that I couldn't ethically support such a bad habit.... The old me would have viewed it as an opportunity to win her affection, inadvertently lowering my social value.

*Upon telling her no, she said maybe she would have to find someone else to buy her cigarettes. I casually told her that she totally should..... The old me would have succumbed for fear of her losing interest, falling for a shit test.

*As we sat on the bench in the park, I continually escalated kino and held eye contact. I Got really close and asked, "Do you know what I want to do?" she replied a knowing "what?" with a romantic expression. I told her I really wanted her to kiss me once on the cheek, with a serious tone, which she responded well to and did..... The old me would have made out at any cost, escalating as quickly as possible.

*When I did go in for the kiss, I waited until she was telling me a story. I politely and suddenly stopped her, saying, "I'm sorry to interrupt, sorry, this will just take a second. I'm going to kiss you." I went for the kiss, was the first to retract, and told her, "Okay, sorry. Go ahead with your story." ..... The old me? Well, he probably would have been bitching about how this girl just wanted a hug at the end of the date.

So anyways, I just now realized how much useful shit I've learned from here, and am grateful for the encouragement to get out there. Knowledge without action is useless.