Newsflash: first impressions do matter, especially when it comes to dating. First dates can either be the start of an amazing relationship, or a total flop that makes you cringe just thinking about it. On a first date, it’s 50-50; both you and your date need to contribute in order to make things go smoothly.
If you have been going on too many first dates to count, you may have picked up a few bad habits. Being conscious of these behaviors can help you put your best foot forward, and keep him wanting more.
- Don’t just leave the plans to him. He doesn’t know you hate Chinese food, and he doesn’t have any idea about your taste in music. He’s certainly not a mind-reader, so when he asks what type of restaurant you want to go to, don’t be afraid to make a suggestion! Don’t be forceful and give him no options either, but put your two cents in. He’ll appreciate your input, and picking a great restaurant together can be the perfect conversation starter.
- Don’t act like you’re interviewing him. This is a first date, not a Diane Sawyer special. Relax! Keep things casual. A first date is meant for you to test the waters and see how you two get along. Can you talk to him? Can your conversation flow? Is he relatable? How does he make you feel? These are things you should internally consider, as opposed to asking him every little detail about his life. Keep the conversation light and fun; don’t bring up anything two hardcore like when he wants to have kids or his political views. You can save those topics for later on when you start to really get to know each other.
- Don’t nervously check your phone. Our iPhones are practically glued to our hands nowadays. You may not even realize how addicted you are to checking Instagram every single minute of the day. First date jitters can certainly come about, especially since first dates can be super awkward! You both barely know each other, and you may feel awkward at certain moments. Try to avoid nervously pulling out your phone and checking Facebook. If things get awkward or boring, just change the subject and keep things light.
- Don’t mention you’ve been cyberstalking him. We all have Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, the works… Some of us may have practically earned another degree in cyberstalking. Let’s face it- you probably cyberstalked the crap out of him before that date. It’s totally okay to be curious, but do not mention the products of your cyberstalking on a date. The last thing he wants to hear is that you’ve been creeping through his pictures online. A lot of times, people are much different in person than what they appear to present on the internet. Don’t let what you see on his Facebook page cloud your judgment; go into your first date with an open mind and give things a fair chance.
- Don’t share your life story. He’s curious too about who you are and what you are all about, or else he wouldn’t be going on this date with you. But, you don’t have to share every little detail about your life, dating history, family, friends, social security number, etc… Be honest, but only share what you feel comfortable talking about with him. Be a woman of mystery, and you’ll keep him coming back for more.
Try to implement these strategies on your next first date, and don’t stress out about whether or not things will go well. Just keep your cool, contribute your part to the conversation, and keep things light!
