"10 Important Questions to Ask"

When getting to know someone, it is vital to ask the questions you don't want the answers to. Here are 10 questions you should have answers to early in the dating phase. Going through this process will allow you to decide if you want to invest the energy and effort into building a friendship, and a possible relationship, with this person.

These are not your typical "date" questions; however, you may be surprised by the information they reveal.

Q.1. Are you currently in a relationship or on a "relationship break?"

While this may seem like an obvious question, people can easily "get caught up in the moment" or make a dangerous assumption. This needs to be the first question asked.

Q.2. Are you close with you family?

This may appear to be a one-dimensional question, but it will provide you with a multi-dimensional perspective of how this person relates to those close to him.

Q.3. What do you like about yourself?

The answer to this question is equally as important as how the person answers the question. If they struggle for something to say, it could be an indication of self-esteem issues or insecurities. However, if they enjoy praising themselves too much, you could be dealing with a self-centered individual.

Q.4. Tell me about someone you admire and respect. Why?

This will reveal the type of qualities and personal characteristics which are important to him or her. It could also be an indication of what type of person this individual aspires to be. Listen carefully and pay attention!

Q.5 Name three (3) things that "get under your skin" or "tick" you off?

As this question is answered, watch his or her body language. This will give you some important clues about how this person deals with anger or frustration.

Q.6. If you could have one of the following - "inner peace," "money," or "power" - which would you choose?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question. How the answer impacts your decision will depend solely on what's important to you.

Q.7. If you had three (3) wishes, what they be?

This will give you a general idea if you are dealing with a selfish person or a selfless person. If all the wishes are focused on themselves, then odds are they find it difficult putting the needs of others before their own. Balance is the key here.

Q.8. Are you a sexual person?

While asking this question may present an uncomfortable or awkward moment, it is an important and necessary conversation. Sexual compatibility is crucial to a healthy relationship. It will present a problem later if this conversation cannot or does not take place now.. Attraction does not guarantee compatibility.

Q.9. What is your favorite indulgence?

This can give you some insight into the "little" things that make a person feel warm, fuzzy and satisfied. Remember, the little stuff counts!

Q.10. What makes you laugh?

Laughter is an amazing gift! However, a sense of humor is as unique as a fingerprint. Some like the antics of Robin Williams and Billy Crystal and others prefer the madcap adventures of Napoleon Dynamite.

Truly getting to know someone takes time and patience but this exercise may assist in deciding where to go from here.