For the last month, a bunch of singles have been helping me celebrate the release of my book by signing up for my dating challenge. They've taken on their own mini version of my 31 Dates in 31 Days and signed up for "Dating Boot Camp." Among them is a handful of brave daters who've kept notes and are now sharing their stories. First up is Marcus from New York City, who turned 33 in October and filled his month full of dates to celebrate. He went on 15 dates in three weeks. And he had some fun - despite being tired! Such a champ!
Good job Marcus!
October 4, 2011
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| Marcus, NYC |
I just got back from my first date. I really enjoyed her company but something I noticed tonight was some anxiety on my part. I’ve been specifically working on dealing with it in a healthy way. I was with a friend and I had nothing to be anxious about. Still, I felt anxious at a couple of specific times tonight. She wasn’t intimidating me, she’s one of the kindest people I know. But something triggered the anxiety. As soon as I was conscious of it I was able to let it go and I became more comfortable. I wonder if she noticed it. I wonder where this is coming from.
October 9, 2011
I had a great date tonight.
Tonight was great because it was proof to me that I’m learning how to let go of all of my anxieties and all of my troubles; I’m just learning how to be me.
October 13, 2011
This is fun, but a little tiring.
I had a great date tonight.
October 19, 2011
I felt very comfortable with her, though I felt bad being so tired.
October 21, 2011
Through all of this though I’m learning to be more at ease with myself, which in turn is helping my dates to feel more at ease. I’m learning how to be more on my A game, even when I’m tired.
October 22, 2011
Some of the lessons that I’ve been considering in all of this is how dangerous hanging out can be. I’ve known this for a while but still it has come back to me with renewed force. Being on a date (even if it’s just a single, first date) is a much better and much more fulfilling way to interact with women. While it requires more of both individuals the payoff is far greater. ...In addition I’ve also become more comfortable dating. Just going on a lot of dates makes it simple and takes away a lot of the anxiety that I’ve experienced in the past. That in turn makes it more comfortable for her as well. Life is good.
October 24, 2011
I had a great time tonight and I wish I knew what to say at this point but I’m so excited to be done that I can’t really think of anything to say. For now, it’s time for bed. I think for me this project has been like mountain biking. It was a mad rush and sure was a lot of fun, even if it was a little tiring. Still, I want more.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Marcus!
Tomorrow I'll share my interview with Marcus where he shares his reactions to the project now that he's had time to reflect - and sleep!
2 comments:
I can't wait for the interview-- I'm counting on you to draw more details out of him than his journal revealed. Still, the entry about hanging out vs. dating gave us a peek into his head. Way to go, Marcus, for taking on the bootcamp and being willing to learn from it. Keep these coming, Tamara!
Just to clarify, I really did have a great time with every woman I went out with. Some entries, however, were too personal to share in their entirety.
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