Seasoned singles typically understand that flirting is more of an art than it is a science. If it doesn't come naturally then it becomes a bit more difficult, though not impossible, to master. While there might be plenty of so-called flirting experts eager to spell out every step of the process for unsuspecting singles, the truth is that flirting can be rather unpredictable. Since you simply never know how others will react to your flirtatious advances, it's probably best to err on the side of caution by learning how to avoid the flirting faux pas that will most likely lead you to become fast friends with a little thing called rejection.


Faux Pas #1: Assuming that flirting and hitting on someone is the same thing.

Flirting is NOT the same thing as hitting on someone. Failure to recognize the difference could get you into trouble or have a catastrophic effect on your ego. When you flirt with someone, you are basically testing the waters in order to determine whether or not your affection is likely to be reciprocated. On the other hand, hitting on someone requires being much more straightforward about your intentions, which comes with a bigger risk of getting shot down.



Faux Pas #2: Coming on too strong.

Flirting is supposed to be a casual phenomenon so it's important to stay as relaxed as possible and refrain from going overboard or making sexual innuendos. The last thing you want to be is overly aggressive or come on too strong, as this will likely have undesirable adverse affects. Making the person you are flirting with think that you are creepy, desperate or a potential stalker will definitely leave a lasting impression, though not necessarily the one you were after.



Faux Pas #3: Being too arrogant.

Confidence can definitely be a sexy thing but because there is a very fine line between confidence and arrogance, you should be careful not to cross it. Just because you know that you are a great catch doesn't mean you should assume that others would automatically agree.



Faux Pas #4: Flirting at an inappropriate time or place.

As common as flirtatious behavior may be, there is a right time and place for everything. In some venues, such as nightclubs, bars, college campuses and social gatherings, flirting is usually considered acceptable behavior and may even be encouraged to some degree. A funeral, on the other hand, is not exactly conducive to flirtatious behavior. If you are unsure about whether or not flirting would be considered inappropriate in a specific situation, then it's probably best to assume that it is and spare yourself the potential embarrassment.



Faux Pas #5: Leading people on.

Even though it is sometimes used as a harmless way of socializing or having some fun, flirting is universally known as an expression of sexual or romantic interest. If you know or suspect that someone is sexually or romantically attracted to you but the feelings aren't mutual, engaging in flirtatious behavior with that person will only cause unnecessary complications for both of you. Tone it down a few notches in order to avoid giving him or her the wrong idea about your feelings or intentions. Flirting can be fun but if there are real feelings involved and they are only one-sided, the amusement is typically short lived.