I get it, first dates can be so nerve-wracking that you end up doing and saying things that can make it awkward, even if you’re normally a confident person.
But if you want to get a second date, it’s important to know what NOT to do when meeting someone new.
As long as you stay away from doing and saying these 10 things, you will be just fine!
Here are 10 things you should never do on a first date:
1. Never arrive late
First dates are already awkward as it is, so don’t leave them hanging or wondering. This just shows that you are probably not too responsible, and also that you don’t value their time. If life does happen, be sure to let them know right away.
2. Never pregame to calm your nerves
It may seem like a good idea at the time but it may end up hurting you more than helping. If you show up to the date drunk or even buzzed, it will most likely show, from your breath to your glossy eyes, and he might get the wrong idea about you.
3. Never complain
Most first dates include meeting for dinner or lunch, but even if you don’t like the food, nobody wants to start off thinking you are a complainer. Try to look at things in a positive light on your first date.
4. Never scroll through your phone
This is simply rude and will definitely make them think you are uninterested and bored, even if you are just nervous. In my opinion, it is much better to ask them a question or make a comment about your surroundings if you find yourself feeling awkwardly nervous.
5. Never badmouth your former relationships
This will make you seem like you are still bitter about your past relationships and can lead to them wondering if you are still not over your ex’s. It’s ok to say things didn’t work out, but you do not have to go into details on your first date.
6. Never assume they are paying
Your first date should not be a financial situation for either one of you! If the guy does offer to pay or insist on it, don’t refuse his generosity. You shouldn’t feel obligated to pay either unless you say you will, so just let it go and be thankful for the opportunity to get to know someone new.
7. Never get wasted
This should go without saying, but always have a good time while still being responsible. Nobody wants to meet up with someone who is drunk or even buzzed because it can lead to an awkward situation where you don’t remember what you did…or didn’t do!
8. Never try too hard
You may think you are doing the right thing by putting on your sexiest outfit or wearing too much cologne, but it can backfire. Society is always telling us what we should look like and how we should act, don’t fall into those stereotypes! Just be yourself and he will find you more attractive that way.
9. Never talk about yourself more than trying to get to know them
This is a classic mistake that most people make on first dates. You want to seem interesting and funny, so you goes on and on about yourself–your job, sister’s wedding, past boyfriends… In the end, you come across as self-absorbed and significantly less attractive.
Avoid this mistake by asking questions about them–what’s their family like? Have they traveled lately?
10. Never give into your fear
It is perfectly normal to be nervous when you meet someone new, but don’t let it paralyze you. Don’t spend the whole day preparing for this meeting or psyching yourself out about messing it up. Take a deep breath and just relax. Remember, everybody has a first date story.
Be yourself and have fun!
Don’t put too much pressure on your shoulders by trying way too hard. There should never be any expectations for the other person, this is simply to see if you would be interested in getting to know one another better. Just enjoy yourself and remember it’s not a big deal if things don’t go as planned!
