Dr. Paulette’s Holiday Date Tips:

Dear Dr. Date,

What do I do if I am dating someone but I don’t want to bring them home for the holiday because I am embarrassed and am just not that into them?

Help,

Stuck

Dear Stuck,The important thing is to be honest without being cruel.  You can let your date know that you generally like to be alone with your family for the holidays and you would not bring home a date unless you’d been dating a long time and it was serious.

If your date is a train wreck, you might want to ask yourself why you are still along for that ride.  It’s just a matter of time until you introduce them to the people in your life.  Family fears are just an indication of your greater longing for a new adventure. 

Relationships have many levels.  You can date for eye candy, spiritual connection or wedded bliss.  You’re not obligated to have anyone meet your family.  Just be honest about what you want from a relationship (ie fun, romance etc) so you send clear signals to your date.  Then maybe you can have your cake and eat it too.

My Best,

Dr. Date

Dr. Sherman is the author of, ‘Dating From The Inside-Out: Using The Law of Attraction in Matters of the Heart,’ being published by Atria Books in February 2008.  Director of ‘My Dating School’ www.mydatingschool.com in Manhattan, she offers classes in dating issues & coaching.  She is a monthly speaker at The Learning Annex, a dating expert on radio and television shows and has been quoted in publications such as ‘Glamour’ magazine.  Dr. Sherman is a Licensed Psychologist and a certified empowerment coach, specializing in helping clients date successfully, while facilitating insight.