An Idiot's Guide to Dating with Dr Tim

Last week I promised a column on the phenomenon that is the cock-block. Now I am nothing if not a man of my word so here for you is a guide on how to deal with that most unholy activity. There are two areas of the cock-block that will be discussed: when another guy starts hitting on the girl you are hitting on and when the girl's insecure and often unattractive friend tries to ruin everybody's fun.

Sexual Tension

This is one of the most important things that will ever be discussed in this column. Sexual tension, chemistry, or whatever you want to call it, is the reason one night stands happen - I suppose in this country alcohol also has a lot to answer for but we will leave that for another day.

Now, the reason sexual tension is so powerful is because it is rare; most guys freak out when sexual tension arises. Why? Because they are pussies! Another reason is that if you are new to the male-female dynamic it can be a little uncomfortable. Sexual tension is all about power, if you have the power there is tension in the air. Example: You are out with a girl on a date, as the night progresses she bumps into a single guy friend of hers and starts to flirt with him. You can A) Freak out, start to act defensive and come across as needy and insecure or B) Chill, let them have some space, wander off and do your own thing.

Last column I spoke about the very important aspect of making the move (to female Ed: the "Amen" makes me think you've had a few too many losers' pussy out when push comes to shove?). Now I'm going to talk about things to look for so you know it's on. I probably should have written these the other way around but oh well.Here it is gentleman, the secret to reading all the right signs...ready? IT'S ALWAYS ON! ALWAYS. ALL THE TIME. Sounds a bit too arrogant yeah? Well it is. Deal with it. What were you expecting? "If she tilts her head to the side and looks dreamily into your eyes then you know she likes you; if she slaps your arm hard, but not too hard, she thinks you're ok".

Picture this: Things are going pretty well, you have made eye contact, initiated conversation, got her to laugh, been charming, cocky, interesting and haven't acted like a needy 12 year old. Good for you man, I'm stoked, it is however with great regret that I have to unleash this. You're going to fuck up.

The Post-mortem
What am I talking about? I am talking about not taking things to the next level, or what I call the "attraction killer". In the society we live in, it is not a female's job to escalate to a physical level. It is yours (Amen! - The female of the Sub-Eds). This is not a bad thing as it allows you to distinguish yourself as a man compared to the boys who have come and gone before you. It does though require a few things. Confidence (just like in every other situation), courage and most importantly: not giving a fuck.