In a few days, it will be Christmas, then New Year’s Day; good reasons to get together with family. But with these lovely gatherings also comes the famous question: Why are you still single? Here’s a little survival guide!

I didn’t get a smartphone until eight years ago, after I was married and had my first child. This means that I lived all my single years without a device to turn to during moments of downtime. You know what I’m talking about.

Striking a balance between mindless small talk and pouring out your heart and soul can be a challenge on a first date. Here are some helpful suggestions.