Women's Life Link Be Well, Be Happy, Be YOU!
First dates have a bad reputation for being awkward, nerve-wracking, and even emotionally difficult. However, it is possible to come away feeling satisfied and at peace. One of the ways you can keep the nerves to a minimum and give it a fighting chance for success is by making a solid plan. Let’s take a look at four savvy first-date ideas.
Let Go Of Expectations
It’s important to let go of expectations when meeting new people. This will help you not judge your date or put unnecessary pressure on yourself to be a certain way. Remember, it doesn’t have to go anywhere or live up to some unspoken goal. It’s just an experience that will either be a gateway to a deeper connection or won’t. And, there are a whole lot of things that need to happen before coming to any conclusions. Let your first date be reminiscent of meeting a new kid on the playground. You can have fun without committing to ever see him/her again.
Go Somewhere You Feel Comfortable
I highly recommend that you set your date in a location where you feel safe and comfortable. This way, if things don’t go well, you won’t feel like a fish out of water. Your favorite café, bar, or park are good choices. It might even help if you are on a first-name basis with the owner or someone who works there. The point is to be around other people who will watch out for you. Also, don’t forget to tell someone where you are, who you are with, and the address of the location.
Keep Alcohol Consumption to a Minimum
I understand that you might feel like drinking to lessen the nerves, but I recommend that you keep alcohol consumption to a minimum. This one is more about your safety than hangover protection for the following day. After all, meeting someone for the first time requires you to have full control and a clear mind.
Visit Your Favorite Tourist Spot
Visiting a tourist spot is a good first date option because you get to experience something you enjoy. Plus, it provides you with something to talk about. A lot of people prefer to be doing something on their date because it lessens the awkwardness. This also allows you to see how they are in a public environment.
Take a Cooking Class
Another option is to go on a cooking date. Of course, if one of you considers yourself a Michelin star chef or cooks for a living, you probably won’t want to do this. However, if cooking is not your career or main passion, doing a cooking class together can be a lot of fun and is likely to result in some laughs along the way. And, if you don’t feel the spark, at least you’ve learned how to make a spectacular dish.
If you are going to be going on a first date in the near future, make it a reminder to take care of yourself. Maybe it’s time for a new outfit, makeover, or other confidence-building act. Most of all, have fun and be 100% yourself.
