Have you ever dated someone's potential? Dating who you want them to be? Who they could be? Who you think they should be? Or maybe you find yourself romanticizing the future?  Lawd knows I have! Thankfully, in this episode, we welcome Dr. Sheva to the show to talk about why we date potential and how can we practice a different approach! Inside, we talk about the different ways we date potential, why we do it, and how to be more grounded - and present - in the dating process.  We also offer strategies for navigating the gray areas of dating, like when someone says they are going to change, but you're unsure how long to wait? Or what signs to look for to know if they're changing? Or if you should even wait in the first place? Finally, we've got ways to manage anxiety in the dating process and how can you identify your needs and work with boundaries so you are less likely to date someone's potential. I hope you enjoy this one as we move out of dating in the past and future, and date in the present! Then don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Dr. Sheva is a licensed clinical psychologist and podcast host of "Tell Me Some More with Dr. Sheva". She believes that the relationship we have with ourselves, particularly how we think and respond to ourselves, is the foundation for our relationships with others. Dr. Sheva is passionate about empowering women to improve their confidence, relationship with themselves, and relational skills to have the connections and life they desire. She also regularly presents on various wellness and mental health topics for individuals and organizations to promote holistic wellness.  Dr. Sheva has shared her relationship perspectives and expertise in numerous publications, such as Forbes, Cosmopolitan, InStyle Magazine, and news platforms.  Learn more about Dr. Sheva on her Instagram @drsheva and at www.drshevaassar.com, as well as the Tell Me Some More podcast. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy, with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage and transform lives for greater healing and deeper connections. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here. 💗 Happy flirting!