First dates are hard. No matter how many you’ve experienced, they don’t get any easier. It’s weird, exciting, and nerve-wracking to meet up with somewhat of a stranger and try to form a connection with them. Sure, maybe your date is a friend of a friend or someone you’ve been chatting with online for months. You might feel like you know them — until you’re face to face and all the nerves come rushing your way. Which is why I recommend using these first date tips (not only so you can feel comfortable on your first date, but so you can also guarantee there’s a second one — if you two like each other):
Dress For The Occasion
Dress for the date you’re going on, not the date you wish you were going on. If the location of your date is somewhere active (an amusement park, for example) it doesn’t make any sense for you to be in high-heels. You don’t want your date to think you’re a weirdo or someone who doesn’t own a pair of sneakers. I know you might want to look your best on a first date, but you can still do that and remain on cue with the occasion.
Be Vague About Past Relationships
Honestly, there’s no real reason why you should be talking about past relationships on a first date. Seems a little too soon. You two are supposed to be getting to know each other, you’re not supposed to be getting to know your ex’s. But, if for some reason, you want to indulge in the conversation make sure you keep it general and vague. Don’t give out your ex’s names, don’t show pictures, don’t do anything like that!
Don’t Lie
This should go without saying but you should never, ever lie on a first date. It’s easy to want to embellish a story to try to impress the person you’re on a date with, but even an over-exaggeration could get you into trouble. Avoid telling white lies and stick to the truth. We live in an era where people can very easily find out the truth on social media or google. So, why lie?
Don’t Be Afraid To Compliment
A lot of women are afraid to compliment a guy they’re interested in. Honestly, I’m not sure why. Maybe because it makes them vulnerable and that’s something they want to avoid. That’s understandable but at the same time, how is someone going to know you’re interested in them if you don’t tell them. If you think your date looks nice, be candid. Make sure he knows you find him attractive so he won’t be in the dark about where you stand.
Avoid Alcohol
You might be inclined to meet your date at a bar or a wine lounge. I get it. That’s considered a “common” meet up place. But, does alcohol really need to be involved in a first date? I don’t think so. A lot can go wrong. Someone might drink too much, get a little too outspoken, and just like that the relationship is over before it even had a chance to start.
Be Upfront
You don’t have to scream at the top of your lungs, “I WANT TO DATE YOU.” But you definitely should make it clear what your intentions are. A lot of early relationships fizzle because there’s a lack of communication. Your date isn’t a mind reader and neither are you. Don’t be afraid to ask him what he’s looking for and don’t be afraid to say what you’re looking for. If he doesn’t like your bluntness, that’s his loss!
Don’t talk Negatively (Or Too Positively) About Yourself
Don’t talk negatively, or too positively, about yourself on a first date. You don’t want to give off the impression that you’re conceded or that you’re a little too insecure. I recommend asking your friends and family about your habits. There’s a chance you might be prone to saying, “I” a little too much and if that’s the case, try to work on that before your date starts.
Don’t Start Off Thinking He’s A Liar
Maybe you’ve been cheated on in the past or maybe an ex forced you to question everything they said. Do your best to not let what happened to you previously dictate how you feel about other people right now. That’s easier said than done, I know. But if you start your relationship off assuming he’s a liar and everything he says to you is dishonest, you can pretty much guarantee it’s not going to work out. Listen to what your date says and don’t jump to the conclusion that his words are false.
Drive Yourself
There are a lot of different rules of thumb for this one. Personally, I think it’s best to drive yourself. Mainly because it’s safer. We live in crazy times right now and although you might want to trust a stranger, you shouldn’t — at least, not yet. Drive yourself and meet somewhere public. Don’t go to their home and don’t have them come to your home. At least, not until you know for sure they’re not a serial killer.