The Dos and Don'ts of First Dates

24.03.2023

First dates can be nerve-wracking experiences for many people. Whether it's because you're meeting someone for the first time or because you're trying to impress someone you're interested in, there's a lot of pressure to get everything right. In this article, we'll explore the dos and don'ts of first dates, including tips on how to prepare, what to wear, what to talk about, and how to behave.

Dos Before the Date

Do Your Research

Before your date, it's important to do your research. This means finding out as much as you can about the person you'll be meeting. This can include looking at their social media profiles or asking mutual friends about them. This will help you get a better sense of who they are and what they like, which can make the date more enjoyable for both of you.

Confirm the Details

Make sure to confirm the date, time, and location of your date beforehand. You don't want to show up at the wrong place or at the wrong time. Additionally, if you're meeting someone for the first time, it's a good idea to exchange phone numbers so you can contact each other if there are any last-minute changes.

Dress to Impress

It's important to dress appropriately for your date. This doesn't necessarily mean wearing the most expensive clothes, but rather wearing something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Make sure to choose an outfit that's appropriate for the activity you'll be doing, whether that's going out to dinner or going for a walk in the park.

Dos During the Date

Be on Time

Being on time is a sign of respect and shows that you value the other person's time. Make sure to leave plenty of time to get ready and arrive at the location of your date. If you're running late, make sure to let your date know as soon as possible.

Be Yourself

It's important to be yourself on a first date. Don't try to be someone you're not or pretend to like things that you don't. The other person will appreciate your honesty and authenticity, and it will make for a more enjoyable experience for both of you.

Listen and Ask Questions

When you're on a first date, it's important to listen to the other person and ask them questions about themselves. This shows that you're interested in them and want to get to know them better. Make sure to also share information about yourself, but don't dominate the conversation.

Don'ts Before the Date

Don't Overthink It

It's easy to overthink things when you're preparing for a first date. However, it's important to remember that it's just a date, and that you should relax and be yourself. Don't stress too much about what you're going to say or do, just go with the flow and enjoy the experience.

Don't Drink Too Much

It can be tempting to have a drink or two to calm your nerves, but it's important not to overdo it. Drinking too much can make you appear sloppy or out of control, which can be a turnoff for your date.

Don't Overdo It on Perfume or Cologne

While it's important to smell good on a first date, it's equally important not to overdo it on the perfume or cologne. Too much fragrance can be overwhelming and distracting, which can take away from the experience.

Don'ts During the Date

Don't Be Late

Being late is a sign of disrespect and can make your date feel like you don't value their time. Make sure to leave plenty of time to get ready and arrive at the location of your date on time.

Don't Talk About Exes

Bringing up your ex on a first date is a big no-no. It's important to focus on the present and getting to know the person you're with, not dwelling on past relationships.

Don't Be Rude to the Waitstaff

How you treat the waitstaff can say a lot about your character. Being rude or dismissive to the waitstaff can be a major turnoff for your date and can leave a bad impression.

Dos and Don'ts After the Date

Do Follow Up

If you had a good time on your date, it's important to follow up afterwards. Send a text or message thanking them for the great time and expressing your interest in seeing them again.

Don't Be Too Pushy

While it's important to follow up after a date, it's equally important not to be too pushy or aggressive. Give the other person space and time to respond, and don't pressure them into anything they're not comfortable with.

Do Reflect on the Experience

After your date, take some time to reflect on the experience. Think about what you liked and didn't like about the person and the date itself, and use that information to improve future dates.

Conclusion

First dates can be nerve-wracking, but by following these dos and don'ts, you can make the experience more enjoyable for both you and your date. Remember to be yourself, be respectful, and have fun!

FAQs

1. What should I wear on a first date? A: It's important to dress appropriately for the activity you'll be doing, but also choose something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

2. Should I bring a gift on a first date? A: It's not necessary to bring a gift on a first date, but if you want to, something small and thoughtful like flowers or chocolates is always a nice gesture.

3. How do I know if my date is going well? A: If you're having a good time and the conversation is flowing naturally, chances are the date is going well. If you're not sure, you can always ask your date how they're feeling.

4. Is it okay to talk about politics or religion on a first date? A: It's best to avoid controversial topics like politics or religion on a first date, as they can be divisive and potentially ruin the mood.

5. How soon should I follow up after a first date? A: It's a good idea to follow up within a day or two after a first date to express your interest and see if they're interested in seeing you again.