First date nerves - we've all been there. The butterflies in the stomach, the incessant checking of the mirror, and the endless "what if" scenarios running wild in our heads. It's 2024 folks, and dating hasn't gotten any easier. If anything, it's more complicated now with the umpteen dating apps, swiping left and right, trying not to look overly keen or disinterested. So, what do you do when the big day arrives? How do you keep those jitters at bay, when you're about to meet someone for the very first time? Buckle up, because I'm about to share the ultimate playbook for tackling those first date jitters head-on.
Let's face it—navigating the minefield of giving a great first impression can be incredibly stressful. You want to be charming but not overly forward, easygoing but not too laid-back, and let's not forget, attempting to look your best without appearing like you've tried too hard. If you've ever felt like you need an instruction manual for this, you're not alone.
Remember your high school presentation? The one where you stumble upon your words and your palms are sweatier than a marathon runner? Ah, those were the days. Luckily, those experiences have equipped us with coping mechanisms for handling stressful situations like dating. And that brings us to one of the biggest tips—rehearsing your conversation. No, I don't mean scripting out a Shakespearean play, but just think about a few common topics or questions you can ask. Not only does it ease the conversation flow, but it also builds confidence.
Speaking of confidence, let's not underestimate the role of self-care and relaxation. We live in an age where 'self-care' is not just a buzzword but a way of life. Gentlemen, this might mean taking a relaxing bubble bath (yes, men can do that too), and ladies might opt for a mini spa session with cucumbers over the eyes. Whatever floats your boat, make sure you invest some time in yourself so you walk into that date feeling as fresh as a daisy.
Now let’s talk wardrobe. Ever spend 50 minutes staring blankly into your closet, only to pull out the same old jeans and favorite tee? Well, choosing the right outfit doesn't have to be that stressful. Pick something comfortable yet stylish—and something that genuinely feels 'you.' After all, authenticity is magnetic, and pretending to be someone you're not just makes you sweat more. True story: I once showed up to a date in an outfit my mom picked. Suffice to say, it didn't go well.
So, stay tuned as we dive deeper into these lifesaving hacks and more. Trust me, by the end of this, you'll handle your next first date like a pro.
1. Switch Your Habits
If you tend to have a routine for getting ready for a date, then try switching it up so that your changed regime is the thing that you are focusing on rather than the prospect of your up coming date!
2. Treat Yourself
Take some anxiety out of the situation by treating yourself to something nice in the preparation process. It might be a stunning new dress, it might be a few pieces of nice jewellery, or even some fresh new makeup. These things will make you feel more excited to get out there!
3. No Pressure
Try not to think about the date as the start of something potentially life changing, just think of it as another foray in to the world of romance that may or may not work. Keep your expectations low and you will be pleasantly surprised.
4. Self-Soothing
There are lots of little things that you can do in order to practise self soothing before a date. You can do breathing exercise, you can make sure that you are well hydrated, and you can stay as cool as possible. The last thing you want to do is leave hot and flustered!
5. Attitude Change
Try to identify all of the thought processes that have made you so nervous about dates before, and work to complete change all of those attitudes. Don’t worry about being liked or going the extra mile, just be yourself and if he likes it, he likes it!
6. Familiar Spot
Don’t add extra stress to the occasion by agreeing to a date in a place that you are not familiar with. If you stick to the bars and restaurants that you already know, then you don’t have to be worried about that side of the date.
7. Back-up Plan
Make sure that you have a back up plan in place for if the date is going terrible. Have a friend on speed dial that knows to call or text you if you give them the red alert signal. You will then be able to make a graceful exit without too many questions!
8. Only One First Date
Try to keep in mind that there will only ever be one first date with each now romantic interest. You will feel nervous on this first occasion, but not all of your dates with them are going to be this nerve wracking. The second will be easier, the third will be even easier than that, and so on!
9. Next Day Plans
Make sure that you have full day of activity planned for the day after your date. This will give you something to occupy your mind, and you won’t be left sitting at home agonizing over how it may or may not have gone.
10. Consider Worst Case Scenarios
It might seem anxiety inducing in the short term, but it can be a good idea to imagine all of the worst case scenarios that could happen on your first date. This will make everything feel better when you are actually in the middle of it and none of the horrible things you envisioned are happening!
