How Not to Be Awkward on First Dates
First dates can leave you both excited and nervous, but you don’t want these emotions to ruin a first impression. While you may be in for a long night, you can take a few precautions to ward off awkwardness and keep the romantic wheels turning smoothly.
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Plan
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Have a plan. Don’t aim for a spontaneous adventure on your first date. Chances are you’ll both draw a blank on what to do. Make arrangements to go somewhere with a casual atmosphere. A fancy restaurant may prove too expensive and formal for a first date, while a dance club may be too noisy to foster conversation. Visit a small diner or take a trip to a bowling alley or hiking trail.
Converse
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Don’t be at a loss for conversation. Have a list of topics in the back of your mind to talk about. Avoid negative conversation. For example, don’t talk negatively about other people or failed relationships. If you run out of topics, just ask your date a few questions to keep the chat flowing. Take a genuine interest in what she has to say.
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Groom
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Practice good grooming habits. Don’t show up to the date with broccoli between your teeth or pasta sauce on your clothes. In addition, this date isn’t an opportunity to try out a new hair style, clothes or facial scrubs. Stick to the styles you’ve come to trust, rather than risk minor fiascoes such as an unsuitable haircut, ill-fitting clothes or irritated skin. Even if your date doesn’t notice the small flaws in your appearance, you may feel too self-conscious to relax.
Sip
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Both of you can have a few light drinks to relax during the date. However, don’t overdo the drinking. You don’t want to make a sloppy first impression. In addition, you don’t want to rely entirely on alcohol as a relaxation method. The drinks should only serve to set up a lighthearted mood.
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References
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