3. BE AN ADULT, NOT A DAD
We think the fact that you have all that experience is sexy, but it can also be intimidating. So be direct about things like if you have kids, if you’ve been married, etc. Concealing details like those will be bad news when we find out later. However, while you might be tempted to share all of your wisdom on careers, relationships, and travel, don’t scold or lecture. It’ll just magnify the age difference and seriously dull the romance. Lastly, don’t assume don’t assume that women under 30 text only in abbreviations and emoticons. Older guys I meet who text like my sorority sisters come off as inarticulate and insecure.

4. MAKE PLANS
I can’t think of anything sexier than a man with a plan. One of the biggest mistakes guys our age make is not taking charge on a date, so this is an opportunity to use your extra years as an asset. Even the loosest itinerary is a welcome departure from a wishy-washy text asking us what we feel like doing. (Unfortunately, that’s very common amongst guys my age.) When my friend 22-year-old friend Marilyn met Rich — 16 years her senior —she had trouble looking past his average looks and round stomach. But Rich took charge and charmed her. He made plans. Marilyn was so impressed by his desire to entertain her that they quickly became serious.

5. STOP YOUR TICKING CLOCK
You may be ready to settle down quickly with this girl, but you need to remember that she may not be looking for the same thing. When my friend Laura, who was 23, started dating Brad, who was about 10 years older, she started to feel awkward when he talked at length about the housing market and how so many of his friends were already married. So if you’re dating several years below you, be careful not to make her feel like she has to rush to catch up.

TAGS: dating advice, dating tips