Assuming this article was written in good faith (which is a sample of "trusting a stranger") which sorta of refutes the main argument here of "earning everything "...the author probably should have offered dating advice that said, "Learn what your date wants as soon as possible: a physical relationship, a boyfriend/girlfriend, or a husband/wife."

And you can assume from the start, they like something about you and is attracted to you on some level (or there wouldn't be a first date at all unless it's a total blind first date)

It's really that simple.

Because what they're looking for will probably make a big difference in how they make up their mind about you..bc some things will mean more; and others will mean less, depending on what they're after...

Does "understanding" matter as the author insists is a goal with this article, well that makes sense; and is important, but that's not difficult either...so the author could have said, " Most men and women have been socialized and taught certain traditional gender roles and attitudes about sex and relationships, it doesn't mean everything and everyone doesn't live by them, but don't be surprised by it either; but all that matters is what works for you and your life."

The author does make a legit point that our expectations are different depending on what type of relationship we are in, which is something everyone should recognize and understand so their expectations are realistic.