If you are considering going out, take some time to review your present situation and how it possibly can affect your future relationship. What should be the simple pleasure of getting to know another human being can sometimes buckle under the weight of unrealistic expectations and the baggage of previous relationships.
Here are some tips to consider when dating:
- No matter how wonderful your date is compared with the schmucks you have been seeing (or married to) do not tell him that he is a nice guy.
- A shared sense of humor is important. Try to bring laughter to the date. Try to get a laugh out of the guy. That way you know you have got something. If he doesnt get your jokes what else is he going to --get-- about you?
- Be yourself. People sometimes try too hard to impress. If they just relax a little, the date will go better and they will not have to worry about any of those little embellishments backfiring later on.
- The worst thing people do on first dates is lie. They are trying to improve their status so you will be interested in them.
- Do not give up. But if things do not go well be prepared. Take your cell phone along on the date. A discreet call to a friend can help you engineer an early end to the date.
- If you are meeting someone you know only through a personal ad or an online dating service, be sure to go to a place with plenty of other people around. And do not blab out your whole life story on the first date. Keep it general: music, books, movies.
- There is a difference between first dates and the first face-to-face contact with someone you connect with through a dating service or ad. That is a meeting to assess each other, not a date.
- If you are comfortable and seem to be compatible set up a date to spend more time together.
- Remember that the first date is supposed to be fun. You are getting to know this person and he is getting to know you. It should not be something that feels like a meeting with your boss.
- Have a specific plan. Do not leave things up to chance. Flexibility is nice but it reduces anxiety to know what to expect in terms of activity and how to dress.
- Give your date a chance. Take the time to listen and look for their special qualities.
The Number One mistake people make on first dates is to judge the other person too quickly and harshly. Always keep an open mind. There is so much to discover about a person. Best of luck!
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