These days everywhere you turn there seems to be another news story about the slump in the economy, along with suggestions on what can be done to turn it around. If you have been having trouble meeting fun and exciting Chicago singles lately, then you might feel like you're in a similar slump in your dating life. Chicago is a lively city that is full of interesting and attractive singles. However, if you are having trouble meeting men or women in your area, it's easy to start feeling as if you are the only person in the entire city who is not dating. Chicago dating doesn’t have to be complicated; you’re about to discover a few fantastic tips to turn your dating slump around so that you can start having a love life again...

Decide on What You Want

Don't be like the guy holding up the line at the deli trying to decide if he wants his bagel whole wheat or onion, toasted or not, with or without cream cheese. Meaning, don’t be the guy or girl who is out there chasing after every attractive individual you see because you really have no idea what you want in a partner. One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to dating Chicago and beyond is not having a solid idea of what they want. It only makes sense that once you know more clearly what you are looking for, it will be easier to find it.

Now, this is not to suggest that it's advisable to create a list of your "perfect mate" and never veer from your search for someone who meets every criterion on it to an exact point. However, it’s important for both men and women to consider what they desire most in a potential partner. So take the time to think about what matters most in a date. And definitely go beyond the basics. While it may be great to find someone who shares your love of foreign films or tennis it is more important that their values and long term goals are aligned with your own.

Be Straightforward from the Start

If you are only interested in casually dating Chicago singles, be upfront about it from the start. It's not fair to waste someone's time who is interested in only serious relationships when you aren't. Sure, you may meet someone that you think is exciting and attractive and be tempted to hold back how you truly feel. But if that someone isn't on the same page, you may end up in a situation that is messy and complicated.

On the other hand, if you are interested in only dating Chicago singles that are looking for long-term relationships, it's best to be straightforward about that as well. Chicago is a huge metropolis and there are plenty of eligible singles looking for romance. So save yourself some trouble from the start by weeding out the ones who aren’t looking for the kind of romance that you are. How do you do this? Well, while unfortunately you can't always trust what another person says, you can gain a lot of insight by being honest yourself. Most people will appreciate you being) straightforward and return the favor.

Now that you are armed with the knowledge to increase your chances of finding the right relationship in Chicago, get out there and give it a shot.