Valentine’s Day might be over, but we’re still feeling the love here at Stargates command.

We all know that dating can be hard, and that's especially true for those in the Stargate universe. The franchise is full of failed and tragic relationships, but it doesn't have to be that way! Learning from the characters of Stargate's mistakes and successes, we've come up with a handy guide for dating should you ever find yourself within the Stargate universe. And even if you don't plan on making your way to Stargate Command or the Pegasus Galaxy any time soon, odds are you'll still find some romantic good tips below.

Find Someone Who Shares Your Interests

This is always a good place to start. Take a look at Nicholas Rush and Amanda Perry, for instance. They were both super smart and loved nerding out over Ancient technology, which made them a great fit for each other. Ditto Eli Wallace and Ginn, Teal'c and Ishta, etc. So find someone who likes the things you like and never be bored again!

Don’t Be Afraid To Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

On the other hand, opposites attract, too. Just look at John Sheppard and Larrin. Naturally enemies, the pair can't help but be drawn to one another. The same is true for Matthew Scott and Chloe Armstrong. While not enemies, these two appear to have very little in common, and yet they are somehow able to make their relationship work against all odds, so don't resist an attraction to someone just because they seem too different from you.

Remember That Love Can Come When You Least Expect It

If you don't go looking for love, odds are it will come and find you. Take a look at Wasif, for instance. He thought love was foolish — something that was decidedly not for him — and he had no interest in seeking out a relationship. Then he randomly met Motawk and his whole life changed. So you should always be prepared because you never know when ~~Cupid~~ Hathor will aim ~~his arrow~~ her nish'ta at you.

Don’t Let Work Get In The Way Of Romance

You're probably familiar with the dangers of the dreaded office romance. Sometimes these romances are forbidden by workplace rules, while other times they're simply considered taboo. In any case, you shouldn't let these restrictions get in the way of your happiness. Look at Sam Carter and Jack O'Neill. Everyone knows they're meant to be together, including them, but they always resisted starting a relationship because they thought it was the right thing to do. But if doing the "right thing" leaves you unfulfilled, then it's probably not the right thing for you.

Beware Of Old Flames

Whenever an ex comes back into your life, you should be on high alert. Remember, your relationship with this person ended for a reason, and if they're cozying up to you again it could be for nefarious reasons. Daniel Jackson learned that the hard way when his old college girlfriend Sarah Gardener unexpectedly came back into his life — as a host for the Goa'uld Osiris.

Don't Be Scared To Make The First Move

If you're naturally shy, your natural instinct may be to avoid asking out your crush for fear of rejection. Don't! The worst thing they'll do is say "no," and even if they do, it's not that big a deal. When Rodney McKay finally built up the courage to ask out Jennifer Keller, she said "yes" — and quite enthusiastically, too. So take it from Rodney: You never know until you try.

Be Creative On Your First Date

Dinner and a movie is so boring, especially when you've got a Stargate at your disposal. So why not come up with something out of the ordinary for your first date? You don't have to fight Nazis on an alien planet like Catherine Langford and James Beal did in Stargate Origins, but maybe a trip to the zoo or something would be nice.

Accept That Things Won't Always Go According To Plan

Being in a relationship is not all sunshine and roses. There are going to be times when the unexpected arises and things don't go according to plan. When this happens, like when Camile Wray became trapped on Destiny and separated from her partner Sharon Walker, you just have to make the most of it. It can be difficult to tough it out during the rough patches, but it's worth it if you make it through to the other side.

Make Sure Your Date Isn’t A Sinister Alien

The biggest difference between dating in the Stargate universe and dating in our universe is the presence of aliens who will date you in the former. There are loads of aliens throughout the Stargate universe, and a good chunk of them are pretty nasty. Among these baddies are aliens that look just like people, such as the Goa'uld, so it's always a good idea to check and see if your crush has a symbiote before asking them out.

But Don’t Discount Aliens Altogether

Yes, there are bad aliens in the dating pool, but if you swear off aliens altogether then you're going to miss out on some great dating opportunities! From Daniel and Sha're to Sam and Martouf to Jack and Laira to John and Chaya Sar, Stargate is full of Earthlings and aliens hooking up, so don't be afraid to look for love outside your zip code — waaaay outside.

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