One of the things I love about Fall (besides the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte) is that it feels like you get to press a “reset” button with the beginning of a new school year and season. Even if you’re not going back to school yourself, Fall is the perfect time for a refresher course in Online Dating Lessons 101.

So, before you cuddle up by the fire with someone special and share something deliciously pumpkin flavored, here are a few pieces of dating advice to keep in mind this autumn –

1. If you like it, put a ring on it.

I’m not suggesting that you propose to everyone you date (DO NOT DO THIS!) However, we could all stand to play a few less games. Somewhere along the line it became cool to be indifferent and pretend to not care about anything or anyone. Yes, dating can make you feel vulnerable and sharing your feelings can be scary, but if you like someone – let them know. Stop beating around the bush and just be honest. Life is short and most likely, if they’re an adult like you they’ll appreciate your straightforwardness.

2. If someone is into you, there won’t be any “mixed messages.”

If you have to wonder whether someone is actually into you, guess what – they’re probably not and that’s OK. I can’t count how many times I’ve heard people say, “I’m not sure what’s going on between us. I feel like he’s giving me really mixed messages.” If you’re saying things like this, the message is clear: they’re just not that into you.

With that said, communication breakdowns can occur even between two people who are really, really into each other. So instead of spending hours trying to decode someone’s texts or behaviour, talk to them. Open up the conversation. This is the only way you’re going to find out what you need to know and (hopefully) get what you want out of this dating situation.

3. Communicate like an adult.

As I mentioned above, communication is key. Be honest and straightforward with the people you date. If you like someone, let them know that you appreciate them. If you’re not feeling a relationship, have the courage to say something, letting the person down politely. A simple, “I think you’re a really great person but I just don’t feel a romantic connection” is so, so much better than simply ghosting on them by never returning their texts. As I’ve learned from experience, people value honesty and integrity. Set a good example for your peers!

4. It’s OK to end things if there’s no chemistry.

If you’re staying with someone because you think they are “nice” but the physical chemistry between you is nonexistent, do you both a favour and part ways. Although physical chemistry isn’t equally as important to everyone, if it is important to you, you deserve to be with someone that you feel that special spark with (as does the person you’re dating!) Breaking something off because you don’t feel a special connection with that nice human being doesn’t make you a bad person, it just makes you honest and in touch with your own needs.

5. Stop posting terrible online dating photos.

Go online and you’ll find entire websites devoted to capturing the phenomena that is terrible online dating photos…and yet, these photos persist. Let’s all make a pact this Fall to just say “no” to shirtless selfies taken in dirty bathroom mirrors, shots where we’re making obscene hand gestures and selfies taken at awkward, unflattering angles. Instead of digging up grainy, out of date photos that are lurking around your hard drive, grab a friend and take an hour out of your day to have them take some decent photos of you. Trust me, you’ll thank me later when the responses start rolling in.

6. Wear good shoes. Always.

The leaves are falling and depending on where you live, there’s a chance that the ground is becoming a little mushy. However, this is no excuse to wear dirty, ratty shoes on your next date. This might seem superficial, but these things matter. I know I’m not the only one out there who checks out their date’s footwear. If a guy is wearing a pair of clean, well kept shoes, my heart always swoons a tiny bit because it shows that he cares about making a good first impression. A pair of mud-caked galoshes – not so much.

7. Remember, that it’s OK to be single.

Take your time. There’s no rush. It might feel like there’s a lot of pressure to meet someone right away and pair up, when in reality taking your time to meet the right person is where it’s at. Go on lots of dates. Talk to lots of different people. Keep in mind that there’s nothing wrong with staying single. Instead of trying to put a square peg in a round hole, wait for the right fit.