Going on a first date or any kind of date can be a bit uncomfortable especially if you are not sure about what to do. While a date is an opportunity to spend time and get to know more about someone, it is also important in terms of how you portray yourself and can determine whether or not you will get a second date. While there are no cast in stone rules on how to behave on a date or how to even prepare for the date, there are six key things you must not take for granted.
1. Look and feel good
This may come across as obvious but it is important to reiterate that a good impression starts with how you look, smell and your body language. While you try to impress, it is important to dress in a way that makes you look clean and feel comfortable. The saying, ”dress how you want to be addressed” comes to play here. You do not want to smell of sweat or wear dirty clothes for a date on any occasion. If you are not sure if an outfit is clean enough, do not wear it at all. Also, though not justifiable, some men tend to read meanings when a women shows a lot of skin. Depending on your style, you may want to ensure you are not exposing too much. Overall, dress to look classy and confident. You do not need to wear expensive clothes to look good. Check out 8 fashion accessories to make you look expensive on a budget.
2. Eat before you go
Okay, I know you are probably thinking whaat?! But yes, eat before you go on a date even if it is a lunch or dinner date. You do not want to come across as hungry, greedy, desperate or needing saving. When you are very hungry, the way you devour food may be a put-off. Personally, the way I eat when I am starving is different from how I would ordinarily eat if I wasn’t starving; because I want to be well-composed when I am eating, I like to go on dates half-full. More importantly, you do not want to go about ordering every single meal on the menu because you are starving. Try to create a good impression, especially if it is a first date.
3. Watch what you say
More than half the time, you are likely not to get a second date if you say things that are a put-off. Though well-intentioned, certain things you say on a date may be taken out of context especially if you do not get a second chance to explain yourself. Limit how you talk about your past, cursing out your ex or even ranting about past experiences. Make sure you do not go on and on about yourself. Make time to listen and observe the other person, their views and their manners. What you say can be a deal breaker so be mindful of that.
4. Do not sexualize yourself/ follow him home
I am not about to tell you not to have sex with someone you find attractive but it is important to maintain some boundaries and not create an impression that you can be called upon anytime he wants sex. Following your date home has a tendency of leading to sex. If you are looking to have a serious relationship with the person, you might want to slow things down.
5. Take some money along
Please! Please! Please! Do not go on a date empty-handed. Even if the other person asked you out, make sure you take some money along. Unexpected occurrences may happen and you must be prepared to avoid the embarrassment in case your date walks out on you or loses their wallet. Also, you may both need to split the cost and it would be embarrassing if you do not have any money on you. Whether you need to pay for an Uber in case of an emergency or pay the bill at a restaurant, it is advisable not to go on a date without money.
6. Be confident
Lastly, confidence enhances a good image. Wear confidence and speak confidently. Ask the person questions on subjects that matter to you in a nice and friendly way. While it is good to be confident you must not strive for dominance (just as the other person must not try to dominate) but instead, be yourself. While I encourage you to be yourself it is vital to be polite and considerate even if that is not your everyday personality. Confidence is the best garment. Check out 30 quotes on confidence to boost your self-esteem.
I hope these tips have been helpful. Always remember that if a date does not necessarily end in a romantic relationship, it has potential to facilitate other forms of relationships including job referrals, recommendations or strong friendships. Therefore, before you go on a date the six points above are checklists you must bear in mind. Read more of our unique relationship tips here. Best wishes.
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