June 13, 2008

Dr. Emma: A few weeks ago I began dating a guy I've had a crush on for almost a year. He was always flirtatious with me, but I had all but given up on him when he finally asked me out. Now that we're actually together, I find that the reality doesn't quite match up to my expectations. Maybe I just need to give him time?

– Kathleen M., 29

I hate to disappoint you, Kathleen, especially since it sounds like your crush guy is disappointing enough. But you have to face the facts here: if he took that long to even ask you out, he'll take ten times that long to become a real partner.

Give him time? I'd say give him the boot. They're called crushes for a reason. If the spark is gone after just a few weeks, how will you ever be able to build a fire?