The emotional journey we all go through while watching The Bachelorette

There are few things in this world as addictive as reality TV. We hate to admit it, but we all love it. While many approach with unwavering skepticism, we are instantly hooked by the third commercial break and then there is no turning back.

When my sister started watching the Bachelor on Juan Pablo’s season I told her she was making a mistake. That being addicted to a show as demeaning to women and the concept of marriage was going to start lowering her IQ. But I was forced to sit and watch and episode with her one night – much to my reluctance – and that was it for me. Something pulled me in.

Now I have sat through every episode of not only Juan Pablo’s season, but also Andi’s, Chris’, Kaitlyn’s and Ben’s. Now it is Jojo’s time to shine, and things are off to a great start (I’m talking about you James Taylor, please give up on Jojo and come find me).  But, of course, there are a few things to keep in mind if you are thinking about getting into this top-notch television show. First of all, you’re going to be addicted. Just accept it. But second, you should be prepared for the roller coaster of emotions that comes along with the many stages of watching an episode of the Bachelorette.

Preparation

You’ll need to properly equip yourselves with just the right kinds of food and drink

Warning your Twitter followers

It’s best to give people a heads up that things are about to get out of hand while Chris narrates the “Previously On” since you are well aware of everything he’s reiterating. Spoiler alerts are your friend.

Freaking out during the episode preview

There is sure to be at least three clips that, when taken out of context, vaguely hint towards a murder or a fatal accident, when in reality are actually about someone getting a bad paper cut or experiencing some slight anxiety.

Feeling self-conscious during Jojo’s B-roll

It’s not possible to sit and watch six straight minutes of JoJo staring off into the sunrise looking unnaturally and intimidatingly beautiful while sober, so this is generally when that first glass is polished off

Having mixed emotions watching the men get dressed for their first date

This can either be extremely entertaining or down right disturbing due to the absurd amount of effort these boys put into their appearance.

Appreciating the simplicity of your own life as you watch Jojo attempt to juggle 10 men on one date

At first, you think Jojo is living the life… but then you realize, ten men are fighting for her attention with aggressive kindness and pent-up testosterone while she has to remain calm for the sake of the cameras and judge whether she wants to marry one of them in the near future. I think I’ll stick to regular dating for now.

Dying of laughter as you watch the crazy one reveal him or herself

Every season has it’s Ashley S… and everyone loves a good Ashley S.

Attempting to drink away the awkwardness that is the first one-on-one date

Please let the torture end soon, the first date tension is too real to handle.

Struggling to remain engaged during the unnecessarily long cocktail hour

Alright Jojo, we don’t need to see you sitting with every boy as he desperately tries to convince you that he’s “here for the right reasons.”

Sitting on the edge of your seat as the rose ceremony begins 

Let’s face it, we all know that last rose is going to the crazy one to keep ratings up.