Hello, wonderful readers!

If you're like most people, the world of dating might sometimes feel like navigating a maze without a map. One moment, you're walking on air, thrilled with the possibilities of a new relationship. The next, you're scratching your head, wondering where it all went wrong. Today, I want to share a powerful tool from the "Love with CLASS" Journal, which has transformed countless lives by helping people find and maintain meaningful relationships.

Did you know?

Before we dive into the core principles, let’s start with a little-known fact about dating that might surprise you: According to a study conducted by the University of Kansas, it only takes about three seconds for someone to decide if they are attracted to another person. That’s right—just three seconds! This brief window of time underscores the importance of first impressions in the dating world.

Now, let's talk about what happens after those initial three seconds. How do you sift through the sea of potential partners to find someone who truly deserves your time and affection? This is where the "Love with CLASS" formula comes into play. It’s a practical guide to help you evaluate potential partners and, more importantly, reject those who don’t measure up to your standards.

The Love with CLASS Formula: What Is It?

The "Love with CLASS" formula is an acronym that stands for:

1. Clarity
2. Love Yourself
3. Ask For What You Want
4. Success with the 3 essential ingredients of relationship
5. Step Up and Step Out

By focusing on these five key areas, you can determine whether a potential partner is worth pursuing or if it’s time to move on.

Clarity

Clarity is the foundation of any successful relationship. When you have clarity, you know exactly what you want in a partner and in a relationship. This means understanding your own needs, values, and goals. It’s about being honest with yourself about what you’re looking for and not settling for anything less. When you’re clear about what you want, you’re more likely to recognize it when you see it. This step affords you an opportunity for self analysis now.

Love Yourself

This step contains the critical actions that provide the transformation that you require to heal your broken heart, identify your specific dealbreakers, grow your self esteem, prioritize the values that guide your life, expand your perception of who and what is in the world for you. It is presented in a unique, playful form of stretching your comfort zone. Completing this step changes your vision of yourself and others. Self-love means prioritizing your own happiness and well-being, and it radiates outward, attracting potential partners who respect and appreciate you. Remember, you can’t truly love someone else until you love yourself first.

Ask For What You Want

Asking for what you want is easy if you understand the formula. Acknowledge, Ask, Appreciate is a simple direct method to ask anyone for anything. The first idea is to only ask the person who can deliver what you are requesting. Acknowledge their ability to perform the task. Ask very specifically for what you want. Savor the waiting period. Appreciate any movement in the direction of your request.

Success with the 3 essential ingredients of relationship

They are:

Chemistry- the easy part. Everyone recognizes instant attraction and a physical connection. This alone is not enough.

Compatibility- a desire to grow together in a direction and absolutely no dealbreakers. It can include Geograpy, Finance, Children, Personal Habits, Sex and practically everything else. A true dealbreaker is something you will not tolerate in your life.

Love with Respect- You can love someone and not respect him. You can respect someone and not love him. Both must be present for relationship to survive.

If any of these are missing, the relationship is doomed even if it lasts for 20 years.

Step Up and Step Out

Once you have completed your research and development in the first four steps, you are now ready to start dating for real. Stepping up and stepping out is about taking proactive steps to improve your dating life. This means putting yourself out there, taking risks, and being open to new experiences. It’s about not waiting for the perfect partner to come to you, but actively seeking them out. Attend events, join clubs, or engage in activities where you can meet like-minded individuals. Taking initiative shows that you’re serious about finding a meaningful relationship.

Applying the CLASS Formula

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about how to apply the CLASS formula in your dating life. Start by reflecting on your past relationships. Did your previous partners meet the CLASS criteria? If not, where did they fall short? This reflection can provide valuable insights into what you need to look for moving forward.

When you meet someone new, take your time to observe and evaluate them based on the CLASS formula. Don’t rush into a relationship simply because of physical attraction or excitement. Remember, those first three seconds are just the beginning. True compatibility requires a deeper understanding of each other’s clarity, self-love, communication, willingness to meet new people, and proactive attitude.

Rejecting Those Who Don’t Measure Up

It’s equally important to recognize when someone doesn’t meet your standards. The "Love with CLASS" Journal emphasizes the importance of rejecting those who don’t qualify. This isn’t about being overly critical or setting unrealistic expectations. It’s about valuing yourself and your time enough to only invest in relationships that have the potential to be fulfilling and meaningful.

If a potential partner displays one of your dealbreakers or signs of dishonesty,  lack of integrity, or any other Red Flags appear, graciously acknowledge his positive traits, thank him for his time and dismiss him from your life. Go to the balcony and declare "NEXT!" You deserve a partner who enhances your life, not one who drains your energy or undermines your self-worth.

Final Thoughts

Dating can be challenging, but with the right tools and mindset, it can also be incredibly rewarding. The "Love with CLASS" formula is a powerful guide to help you find a partner who truly complements you. Remember, you are worthy of a relationship that meets your highest standards. Don’t settle for anything less.

Here’s to finding love with class and creating the relationship you’ve always dreamed of!

Warm regards,
Susan Sheppard