Even the most seasoned dater can get a case of the predate jitters. If your stomach is in knots at the prospect of your first blind date, try to relax. Keeping these five tips for a blind date in mind can help things go more smoothly.
Represent yourself accurately
Advertising that you love to go out and have fun might get you dates, but in the end, they might not be the types of dates you want if you're actually an introvert. Realizing your date isn't who he said he was is an awkward situation, to say the least. It's best avoided by each showing his or her true colors as much as possible. This goes for photos as well. If you exchange pictures before your date, remember that you want someone who is attracted to you, not who you were 10 years ago or after some heavy airbrushing.
Don't get discouraged
On the other side of the coin, there's a possibility that you could end up with a date who isn't what he seemed. If you were expecting Jon Hamm but got Joe the Plumber, there's no need to throw your hands up and run away. Chuck your expectations and try to have fun, at least for the duration of the date. You never know what could come out of it.
Choose the right activity
Seeing a movie might seem like a great date idea at first glance, but not so much when you're trying to get to know someone. Choose an activity that allows you to interact and talk, like bowling or a picnic in the park. Save movies, plays and concerts for a time when you know each other better.
Follow conversation clues
You're finally on your date and seem to be getting along when an awkward silence appears. This is bound to happen on almost any date and shouldn't be taken as a bad sign. Try to pick things up again by asking your date about himself or use humor to lighten the mood. A well-timed "Don't you hate awkward silences?" can do wonders for breaking the ice.
Plan your escape
If you're meeting someone for the first time, following certain safety precautions is a good idea. Let a friend or family member know exactly where you'll be, who your date is and when you expect to be back. You can even keep your cell phone on and have a friend call to give you an opportunity to politely bail out. Listen to your gut. If you feel like something just "isn't right," take the first opportunity you can to exit.
Blind dates aren't so bad. You can have fun on a blind date. |
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There are two top rules in blind date advice: Choose the right location and develop a strategy for beginning and ending the date. |
