It’s no secret that first dates can be a nerve-wracking experience for both ladies and gents alike – but it doesn’t mean they have to be. Deal with your nerves, and dating can be an incredibly fun way to meet local singles. To calm those butterflies and help that first date go smoothly, we’ve got a few simple tips to boost your confidence.
Getting Ready
Start getting ready early, and take as long as you need. If you’re already nervous, fretting about arriving on time is the last thing you want to worry about, so make sure you know where you’re going and how long it takes to get there. First dates are all about first impressions, and being late never sets a good one!
This also gives you plenty of time to check yourself over in the mirror, readjust your tie, or redo those buttons, to ensure you look just right. When you leave the house, you can do so in the safe knowledge that yes, your flies are definitely done up or no, your bra is definitely not showing.
As for style, smart-casual always strikes a happy medium. Above all, be comfortable in what you’re wearing. If you’re confident about how you look in the mirror, that confidence will translate into your body language and behaviour. If you’re still worried, get a second opinion from a fashion-conscious friend or relative before you go.
Getting To Know Each Other
Remember, your date is probably just as nervous as you are. If they don’t look it, it probably just means they’re good at hiding it! Whatever happens, don’t panic. If a joke doesn’t pan out or a comment goes badly, move right on and forget about it. Having an opener always helps; it can be an interesting fact about yourself or a question for them, just prepare a few conversation starters to fall back on.
Asking about your date always goes down well. People like talking about themselves, and it’s a great way to kick-start a conversation. If you met online then you’ll already be a step ahead, as you’ve got access to a whole page of information written personally by your date: detailing their likes and dislikes, good conversations to start and maybe ones to avoid.
Just Be You
The key thing is to be yourself. Don’t sound like you’re reading from a script – be easy, casual and confident. Remember, if you’re on the date it means they like you already! Instead of fretting about presenting the very best possible version of yourself, show them the regular, happy, everyday you. The rest will come naturally!
Whatever happens, don’t raise the stakes too high in your head, and try not to beat yourself up if it doesn’t go the way you planned. A flawless first date is a rare thing, but that’s all part of the fun – just go out and have a good time! If you’ve yet to foray into the world of online dating, what better place to start than right here on freeandsingle.com?
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