It’s official: You’re going on another first date. Maybe it’s a first ‘first date’ ever for you, or maybe you just haven’t been out with someone new in a long time. Whatever the case may be, first dates are supposed to be fun, exciting, and important. You just never know–Maybe that special someone you end up with in life will share a drink or a coffee with you soon.
So here’s how to prepare for a first date.
Don’t Stress; Be Your Best
Maybe this first tip seems contradictory, But hear it out: The only type of stress you need on a first date is the good kind. Those fluttery feelings of excitement in your stomach are a healthy kind of nervousness. It’s just the right amount of anticipation to fuel any chemistry you two might have.
So how do you lose the unwanted anxiety? Just be your best self. If you were to meet yourself, what would you be impressed with?
that’s not to say you should show off and be self-absorbed. A narcissistic attitude doesn’t make a good first impression.
Just think of your best qualities:
- Do you present yourself well? (think grooming and appearance.)
- Are you down-to-Earth?
- Do you have a fun-loving sense of humor?
Just be who you normally are, and don’t be afraid to display your most endearing qualities when the timing’s right.
Start Out Casual
The tropes of old-fashioned courtship call for a first date to be at a fancy restaurant or perhaps a movie. But though some may lament the lack of chivalry today, cool and casual makes more sense.
Meet your date at a local coffee shop or for a couple drinks. If you’re very daring and you think your date might enjoy a little risque fun, take him or her to see some All American Centerfolds. If the vibe is right, the date is sure to be memorable.
Keep the first date casual. You can’t find true chemistry if either one of you is anxious or feeling under pressure.
Also, you don’t want to put yourself into an awkward situation that you can’t get out of if you two don’t happen to click. (Think dinner and a movie).
Rock The Conversation
No, you don’t have to be a hotshot conversationalist or even an extrovert. You certainly don’t need to have a cache of cheesy pickup lines; those are a turn-off.
But while you’re at a quaint little bar or coffee house, genuine conversation is what your first date will thrive on.
Here are a few things to remember about being good at conversation:
- Listen more than you talk; the back and forth banter will come naturally.
- Show that your interested; Ask questions that make good segways.
- Lead with a pleasant sense of humor.
Check out some of these clever conversation starters to keep in mind when you need to fill a quiet lull.
Remember that good conversation isn’t always verbal. Knowing how to read body language can really help you understand where your date stands emotionally and otherwise.
How To Prepare For A First Date In Years
If you haven’t been on a date in years, some of the above tips might seem daunting. Taking those ideas to heart can make for a successful date, but what you really need is confidence and self-compassion.
to put it simply, self-compassion is the art of giving yourself a break. It’s the ability to be kind to yourself, no matter what you experienced in the past in terms of dating and relationships.
If you have self-compassion, you can grant yourself some leeway to start fresh. In order to do so, allow yourself to believe that you’re worthy of this first date. focus on your positive qualities.
Then, examine your past shortcomings, not as mistakes, but as lessons you can learn from. Remember that your past mishaps can teach you to do better in the future.
First Big Date And Beyond
Do you feel better about how to prepare for a first date? With some luck, this first meeting will bloom into a lifetime of dates. For more tips and advice about navigating a new relationship, browse our blog and come back again soon. We’re here to give you endless ideas about dating and love.
