Dating can be tough. It's hard to know how to ask someone out, what to talk about, how to impress your date, and how to know if they even like you. It's understandable if you're struggling! In this article, we'll share some tips for making your date a great one. From meeting new people and deciding when is best to ask them out to the first date conversation topics that will make you a dating pro, we've got it all here. Now stop worrying about having a bad date and start getting ready for an awesome one!
Meeting people
Dating can be a tricky business, especially for shy or unsure singles. Dating apps have made it so much easier to connect with people, but it’s also made dating feel impersonal. The best way to meet someone is through your interests, not just one specific activity or thing. If you're into yoga, try signing up for a class at a local studio. If you love music and want to learn how to play an instrument, start taking lessons.
Sign up for singles groups for your area on social media platforms like Facebook. Many of them host or provide access to many different types of singles activities that make it much easier to meet and get to know many people at once. It might be hard at first to attend an activity if you don't know anyone there, but before you know it, you'll make lots of new friends and maybe come away with a few love interests and hobbies too!
Asking someone out
Asking someone out can be a scary proposition. Most people get butterflies just thinking about asking someone out, and it can be nerve-racking to bring it up. If you want to know if your date is interested, waiting too long is the worst thing you can do. It would help if you asked them out before the butterflies in your stomach have faded. Most people are flattered to be asked out, so don't get too psyched out about asking them. It might help to think of it more as a way to get out and do something fun with someone else while getting to know them a little better. That can help make asking someone out a little less daunting.
If they're busy, don't assume they don't want to meet. Ask what day and time work best for them. It might help to ask if they prefer going out on a weekday or weekend. Some people's weekend social calendars fill up fast, and it might be harder to squeeze in a date, especially if they don't know you very well. In this case, it might be more appealing to them to go on a first date on a weekday when they are more likely to have an evening free. Others might prefer staying in on workdays and might prefer the chance to do something fun with you on the weekend.
Choosing an activity
Choose your date activities wisely! Plan the date in advance so they know you put thought and effort into making it special. And choose activities that let you focus on one another. It's best to steer clear of activities that will distract you from what you really want to do on your date, like watching TV or scrolling through your phone.
When choosing your date activities, it's important to find something that you'll both want to do. Go for a walk or a bike ride together, get some frozen yogurt, or try out a new restaurant. Whatever you choose to do, it's important to show your date that you're interested in spending time with them and getting to know them.
What should you wear?
What you wear says a lot about you, and when it comes to a first date, you want to make a good impression. Obviously, your date activity and the weather will highly determine what kinds of clothes you should wear. Even if it's a warm day, you'll want to bring a sweater or light jacket in case there is air conditioning inside or the outdoor air turns chilly. Wear something comfortable so that you can focus on your date without having to deal with falling straps or awkward-fitting clothing all evening.
You also want to avoid being overdressed or underdressed. A suit or fancy dress might be off-putting for a casual dinner date. Likewise, running shoes, unless you're doing something athletic on your date, might be overly casual. Aim for classy and flattering. You may want to choose a few outfit ideas and get a friend's insight on which you should wear.
Conversation pointers
You've found a person you want to get to know, and you've decided to spend some time together. Let's be honest. Most of us have been stuck on this dating question for years: What should you talk about? Remember that this date is a great way to get to know them, not just on a surface level but to really understand what makes them tick. Ask them questions and follow-up questions.
People love to talk about themselves, and research has shown that the more people are engaged in conversation, the more favorable an impression they have of the event. Ask them what they enjoy doing and what they enjoy about it. Make eye contact as they talk to show you are really listening and look for ways to ask follow-up questions based on what they tell you. Avoid the pitfall of eagerly waiting for them to finish talking so you can jump in with your own point-of-view. Above all, be genuine, be honest, and help your date feel appreciated and at ease.
Conclusion
There are a lot of different things that can make or break your date. Who you're with, what activities you do, what you wear, and how the conversation goes all impact the outcome. We hope following these tips help make your date a better one. Enjoy!
