You spot them, you like them and you want them. Or, at least, the idea of them. 

You start to get to know each other. Each of you are the best version of you. Things are new and, at this stage, you decide whether you like them enough to hang out.

You decide to spend time with them. The big date night comes and, if all goes well, then of course the dates continue! 

Now you've gone on more and more dates. Things are going well and they've continued to stay normal. 

A few months pass by and you still find yourself liking this person. Things are starting to get real!

Now you really, really know them. Certain things you like, other things you don't. But remember, no one is perfect. 

Enough time has gone by, you're both still here and overall this is working out for both of you. There are two decisions to make. Proceed to No. 8 or No. 9!

Congrats! You've got yourself a relationship! Or...

If, after stages one through seven, you decide it isn't for you, then it's all good! Continue to love yourself and eventually you'll date again until you find what works for you.