A lot could be said about first dates if you key it in Google and have the patience to read about it. This is one topic in the dating and relationships section that could be broken down into many sub-topics. From going on first dates, to what are the best topics to talk about, what to expect on a first date, what clothes to wear, what are the hottest places to go on the first date, and so on. Like I said, first dates could be a topic for debate if you want to.
Beyond all this, I think that most of the people around you will always tell you to be yourself. It’s the key thing that you need when you embark on new things – may it be dating or joining a Zumba class. Being yourself or determining if your date is being themselves could be tricky since people tend to put their best foot forward.
Whether you’re doing this [dating] for the very first time, or this is going to be your first date in a long time – like if you have been in a long relationship and started dating again, or if you’re dating new people regularly but is still nervous every time, these first date tips that I will be giving you will probably get you that second date.
I have created a list for you to check on before that first date you’re planning this weekend and take note, this is something you can always go back to in case you forget it and something you can share to your friends if they need it.
Do’s and Don’ts On a First Date
Before you go on a first date, make sure that you take note of the following important things to consider:
- Be on time
- Pick a good location
- Wear something cute and comfortable
- Be in the moment
- Open to unexpected date ideas
- Research your date
- Have a positive outlook
- Talk about current issues
- Be yourself
- Mind your manners
- Break the dating rules
Of course, if we have a list of must-do, there’s also a list of don’ts. Make sure to avoid the following:
- Meet in an unreasonable hour
- Expect your date to pay for your meal
- Drink too much alcohol
- Use your cellphones
- Turn your date into therapy
- Tell them you researched them
- Get too personal
- Talk about your exes
- Reveal your insecurities
- Ask about his finances
- Talk about sex (unless your planning on it)
So, yes, that was a lot to recall, but these are very basic and self-explanatory and I want to sum it up for you.
It is, in fact, important that we follow certain etiquette or protocol in dating – it’s like the Golden Rule, “Do not do unto others what you do not want others to do to you.” I’m sure you wouldn’t want someone to be late on your appointments, right?
First Date Conversation Tips
Dating is something that should be fun and memorable. Something both parties should be enjoying as a part of the getting-to-know part of dating. Whether you are planning to a second date or not, it is still great to be able to give each other memories that you can share with your friends or family or have a good laugh afterward.
Give them positive feedback but don’t give your date false hopes if you’re not interested to get another date with them. Ask questions you’re interested to know to answers too, but as I mentioned above, just don’t be too personal. And if you still did, and they didn’t want to answer the question, give them time to answer it – however long it takes.
What to expect on a first date may be something that gives you anxiety, but remembers what I mentioned above? Yes, just be yourself, read the cues – if they’re interested or not, and if the person is right for you, they would like you as you are, and if not, then, move on and say, next!
