5 Quick Fixes for Dating Dramas

Whether you've been stood up or are trying to get a creepy guy to lay off, commit the tips to memory and you'll be able to tackle any situation.

IF YOUR DATE DOESN'T SHOW UP: Resist the urge to call or text him to b---- him out. Instead, go ahead and finish your drink or enjoy that solo meal you've always said you'd have. If you tell your waiter or bartender your date didn't show, you may even get a free drink or app for being such a good sport and not bolting. If it turns out that he doesn't even have a good excuse for bailing, feel free to call him out on his inconsiderate behavior.

IF THAT CREEPY DUDE WON'T LEAVE YOU ALONE: Take a deep breath, straighten your spine, and be brutally honest. Women tend to feel guilty about being harsh, so they try to gently shoo a guy away- but it's tone that men respond to, not words. So wipe the polite smile off your face and bluntly say, "I'm not interested." Don't slip it in an apology or keep babbling. Just those three words - with a firm voice! - should be enough.

IF YOU MEET HIS PARENTS AND THEY OBVIOUSLY HATE YOU: Don't force it, because it can backfire. Instead, understand where they're coming from: they are concerned about their son's well-being and need reassurance that you care about him. Rather than trying to win their approval by talking about yourself, share a story about a time he made you laugh. If they are flat-out rude to you, then stand up for yourself as a last resort. Say something like, "You may not love me, but I'd appreciate it if we could get along." If you refuse to be pushed around, they might finally show you the respect you deserve.

IF YOUR GUY FRIEND STARTS HITTING ON YOU: Ask him for advice about a dude you have your eye on - even if he's imaginary. For example: "I'm totally into this guy at work, but I'm not sure how to take it to the next level. Any ideas? You're such a good friend [with an emphasis on friend!], I figured you'd have a great suggestion."

IF YOU'RE ON THE WORST DATE EVER AND NEED TO DITCH THE DUDE: Slyly glance at your phone and say: "Whoa, I have a bunch of missed calls. Excuse me, I should check on this." Then go to the bathroom or to the ATM to grab cash for your portion of the bill. When you come back, say, "I'm sorry to do this, but there's been an emergency, and I have to go. It was nice meeting you." Then drop your half of the check in cash on the table as you walk out.

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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.