So, you've had the first date, which was great, and date number two was fab too, but you still might be looking for ways to decide whether to go on a third date. I'm here to hopefully help you. On the first date, you're probably on your best behaviour and the second date too. The third date is usually the one where you're deciding whether it's worth pursuing further and there are some ways to decide whether to go on a third date or whether to jump from the dating train right now before travelling any further.
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1. Who's Making the Plans?
One of the first things to think about when you want to decide whether to go on a third date is to look at who is making the plans. Are you always making the decisions about where and when to go, or are the decisions mutual? If you're the person who is always making the effort, maybe consider whether they're genuinely interested, as this is a good indication about how the rest of the relationship could potentially go.
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It's important to take note if your date is showing equal enthusiasm and initiative. A balance of give and take is crucial in the budding stages of a relationship. If your date is suggesting plans and showing genuine interest in spending time with you, it's a good sign they're invested in getting to know you better. Conversely, if you're met with hesitation or a lack of creativity on their part, it might be a signal that the connection is not as strong as you'd hoped.
2. Comfort
Of course, it's early days yet and you probably don't know each other well, but you should be getting more and more comfortable with each other as you spend more time together. If this isn't the case then consider whether you really want to see that person again. Can you share your thoughts and feelings or do you get the feeling that they're judging you and not taking you seriously?
Frequently asked questions
The third date can be quite significant. It's often when you start really figuring out if there's long-term potential. By this point, you’ve usually seen enough of each other to know if you want to keep going.
If you’re both eager to see each other again, conversations are flowing easily, and you both seem genuinely interested in learning more about each other, those are great signs! Also, if you feel a connection and have shared values, that's a big plus.
It's totally normal to feel unsure. Think about how you felt during your last dates. If there were more positive moments than negative ones and you felt comfortable, it’s worth considering another date to see where things go.
Pay attention to their communication. Are they initiating conversations? Do they seem excited when talking to you? If they're making plans and showing interest in your life, those are good indicators they’re interested in a third date.
The third date is a great time to dive a little deeper. Share more personal stories, discuss dreams and aspirations, and maybe touch on more serious topics like family and future goals. Just keep it natural and don't rush into heavy discussions if it doesn’t feel right.
3. Shared Interests
Do you share the same interests and does he or she seem genuinely interested in you and what you have to say? Are they staring out of the window as you talk or do they seem happy and pleased to be in your company?
4. Differences
There is an old and famous saying you have probably heard before - opposites attract. Some differences add interest whilst some might pose a problem. Do you like listening to his or her tales about sky diving even though you have serious vertigo and would never consider jumping out of a plane? If the stories bore (and terrify) you then perhaps forgo the third date.
5. Talk
Do you have plenty to talk about or are there lots of awkward silences where you're both desperately trying to find things to say? If you're already running out of things to talk about then it might be time to call it a day.
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Natural conversation flow is essential for compatibility. If you find yourself often struggling to keep the dialogue lively, it could indicate a lack of shared interests or chemistry. It's important that conversation feels effortless and engaging, with both parties equally interested and invested in the exchange. Look out for those moments when you feel a genuine connection through your discussions. They're a good sign that your relationship has the potential to grow. On the other hand, if silence feels like the most comfortable option, it might suggest that this partnership lacks the spark it needs to flourish.
6. Appreciation
How appreciative does he or she seem to be about being in your company? Were they polite and courteous and did they thank you? It's nice to know that someone has genuinely enjoyed being in your company, and if they have made you feel that way then it might be great to see them again.
7. Meet the Parents
I know, it's early days yet but think about how comfortable you would be meeting his or her parents, or how you would feel taking them home to yours. This can be a real indication as to how you feel about that person.
Deciding whether or not to pursue a relationship further in the early days can be difficult and taking it slow is key. Does anyone have any helpful hints for deciding whether to take it to Third Date Central or just stop at Second Date Station?
Comments
Marlissa: So many of these factors are true.
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