First dates are undeniably the worst in terms of anxiety. Trust me, we’ve all been there. The stress of picking out the perfect outfit combination, coupled with pre-date, nauseating jitters that made the evening ahead seem horrifying, all made me want to call and cancel. But I’m thankful I gave my boyfriend a shot, even after he showed up a half hour late! 

The fear of the unknown is perhaps what bothers me the most. In retrospect, everything for us went extremely well, probably because we worked together for a year prior to our first official date, but by reminiscing and talking with friends, there are some things that should be avoided no matter what! 

1. Don’t be guilty of T.M.I.

Even though you’re both trying to get to know each other within a short time span, it’s never okay to reveal too much information about yourself on the first date. It can be so much more exciting to leave certain aspects for another time and speak in fairly general terms at first. Make him want to learn more and, more importantly, call for a second date!

2. Avoid embarrassment at all costs.

During the first week of dating my boyfriend, I tried to be cute and flirty by sending a playful text message that formally addressed my boyfriend as “Mr. [Last name].” It would have worked out fine, except I spelled his last name wrong! Make sure you do your homework beforehand. Also, if it’s your first date, avoid drinking too much. You don’t want to do or say something you’ll regret later on.

3. Leave your ex in the past. 

On my second date, I missed a call from my ex-boyfriend. We had been on bad terms anyway, and my current boyfriend was well aware that our relationship was over. But after my boyfriend and I got back to his car after seeing a movie, I checked my phone and discovered the missed call. I immediately got quiet and flushed, and my boyfriend noticed. Instead of being mad or accusing me of still talking to my ex, he said, “Maybe this will help,” and kissed me! It was our first kiss, and the moment is still memorable to this day. So, forget about your ex, enjoy someone new and hope that he will make a move similar to my boyfriend.

4. Show emotion, even if you have to fake it.

My boyfriend and I hit it off right away, but a lot of people don’t vibe well on the first date. If the guy was nice enough to reserve a night for you to take you out, even if you’re not totally feeling him, try your best to keep the conversation going by being polite and thankful. You don’t have to go out with him again, but try to make the best out of your night out, even if all you gain was a fun night out.
 5. Go with your gut.


He might be a perfect ten on paper, but certain warning signs may prove otherwise. If he talks about himself too much or is constantly checking his phone, then I lose interest. Those are no-no’s in my book. What’s worse is if he blows me off or stands me up at the last minute. You want a man to treat you right, so if he starts out on the wrong foot, don’t be so willing to keep giving him second and third chances.

Do you have any dating advice you’d like to share?

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6