How to score a soul mate in the reality world
By Delaney Daly

Let’s be honest, there isn’t a shortage of love connection shows out there.. It’s always fun to watch people lie, cheat and steal their way to a lifetime supply of romance (or at least a few weeks). Where would we be without such quality television? It gives hope to all the love hungry viewers. Thanks to these programs, hitting the dating scene has never been easier! Let’s look at some lessons for nabbing your life partner, according to some of our favorite reality dating shows.

1) You Gotta Get Somethin’ to Give Somethin’
Everyone needs something to know they are truly loved. People need a symbol of ownership that separates them from other hopefuls. Nothing says, “I love you” more than a fake rose, a giant clock necklace or a backstage pass. At the end of a successful date, be sure to give your crush something equally ridiculous like a giant sailor hat or a foam finger with your face on it. This lets them know that “Hey, you’re still in it.”

2) Fear The Liners
Don’t feel too safe if everything is going well when you’re dating that special someone. You may find yourself on the receiving end of a cheesy elimination catch phrase. That’s when you know it’s all over. “Your shot at love has ended,” “Your time is up,” “Your tour ends here” are phrases of doom. If your mate says, “Your bill didn’t pass,” or “Our love slipped off the tracks,” or “Mathematically speaking, you don’t compute,” know that true love was not meant to be.

3) Dinner and a Make Out
We’ve all been there. You’re out on a date enjoying a nice meal and great conversation when your love interest ends up making out with the person next to him or her. Boy, if I had a nickel… That’s just the way it goes! Scoring a date means sharing it with another person or more. Just remember to stay calm and be patient. If there’s one thing reality dating shows have shown us, it’s that your make out session will be a few minutes later.

4) Love One-On-One
Never underestimate the importance of some quality alone time. This is the time to grab your love’s heart. Sure it’s only about fifteen minutes, but isn’t that more than enough for some deep soul searching? This is when the two of you can really…(get ready)…CONNECT. Of course, by “one-on-one” I mean your date, a cameraman, a producer, lighting specialist, script writer and set designer. But that shouldn’t make for any awkwardness.

5) Love At First Fight
Nothing says, “I love you” more than a good ol’ fashion brawl. When someone comes between you and the love of your life, sometimes you just have to throw down. I think that’s what everyone wants in a soul mate. The list goes something like has a career plan, loves children and can throw a nasty right hook. Show some class be beating someone’s… behind.

So there you have it! Reality television shines a light on the dating scene. These lessons of love have given you a leg up on the process. Go get ’em!