Dating? Here’s some advice on getting serious from the book “How to Survive Dating” (Hundreds of Heads Books, www.hundredsofheads.com, $12.95), straight from people who’ve done it:

How do you get out of a bad date once you’re in it? Say, “I have to go to bed early. Thanks a lot. I had a really great time.” And the next time he calls, say, “I just don’t feel like there’s any chemistry between us. I’m sorry. I don’t want to waste your time.”

– Donna, Atlanta, Ga.

I met a guy recently who told me where he worked, so I Googled his name. I saw his company profile and found out some personal information about him, like the sports he played in college. It was too forward for me, because when I went out with him and he introduced different conversations, I knew some of the background already. I felt like a stalker. Better to let things unfold naturally.

– Mary, Reno, Nevada

All too often, women have preconceived notions about what a date is going to be. You think it’s going to be perfect. You’re getting ready, you’re all excited, and you’re thinking, this is going to be the best date I’ve ever had. But for whatever reason, he might not be as interesting as you want or as fun as you want, and you’re ready to dismiss it. But you can never tell from a first date. There may be other things that went wrong. Who knows? The guy could’ve had a bad day or he could be nervous, and you’re judging him on that. So, if you don’t like the guy but you know he’s a good person, you should always go on a second date to see what happens. Things may be different.

– Lisa, North Carolina

Don’t share too much on the first date. I don’t need to know that you’re on Prozac. I don’t need to know that you were in foster care. I don’t need to know that your mother died when you were 14, or that your grandmother has Alzheimer’s. Stick to shallow stuff on the first date. We can get deeper as the relationship goes on. Tell me about your job, where you’re from, your hobbies, your interests. Talk about current events, the books you’re reading, what movies you’ve seen lately, where you travel, where you want to go. These give me an indication of who you are.

– Anonymous, Cincinnati, Ohio

On those really bad dates, just keep reminding yourself that the night will eventually end and you will always come home at some point, put on your comfy cozies, and snuggle up in bed with a good romance book.

– Kristin, Seattle, Wash.

Hundreds of Heads Books’ survival guides offer the wisdom of the masses by assembling the experiences and advice of hundreds of people who have gone through life’s biggest challenges and have insight to share. Visit www.hundredsofheads.com to share your advice or get more information.

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