hi write,
remember that when you go on a date or two..or three or four with someone, you are NOT obligated to them. You're simply trying to get to know them a little better to determine whether or not you're compatible. So yes, it's OK!!
That said, trust is very important, especially early on in any relationship.
So, I would mention at some point early on when you are dating someone you find interesting that you are not dating them exclusively (if they freak out, it's a sign of their insecurity/latching onto you too early anyway, which cannot be healthy). At some point if you find you ONLY want to date one person, it's a sign (in my case it has been anyway) that they May be The One. I would also tell the person this. Sometimes it works out in magical and wonderful ways after that...
Other times, you come crashing down from that cloud you were on, as they tell you something like they don't feel the same (explicitly or not).
In my dating expereince, I found it necessary to say this: I'm at a point in my life where the best thing for me to be doing is to date around, to see what's out there - my friends are wholeheartedly supporting me in this, and since I think every good relationship starts out with a solid friendship, I hope you will too..
(or something like that).
it gets easier after a few times.
pb
p.s. I think you're doing a fine job, dating is tough! you are asking all the right questions and admitting where you need some guidance to get it right
