First dates can be quite nerve-racking. Hey!, you just got a catch and you don’t want to mess it up, so it’s normal to feel apprehensive about it, particularly on the off chance it could lead to something else. In saying that, our nerves can get the better of us and make us say or do things we wouldn’t normally do.
First dates are our first impressions. So to make things a little smoother for your first date we’ve come up with 10 things NOT to do on a first date.
10 Things Not To Do On A First Date:
#1. Do Not Choose The Wrong Venue
While going to the movies is a fun thing to do, it may not be the best choice for a first date. Choose a venue or activity that provokes conversation and action. The point of a first date is to get to know each other. Going to a comedy show, or the arcade would be a better choice to become more acquainted with each other.
#2. Don’t Wear The Wrong Clothes
We can’t always judge someone on the clothes we wear, but when it involves the first date then it’s important to dress the way we want to be seen. After all first impressions do last!
For the ladies, this is pretty important in the list of things not to do on a first date.
- High Heels
Despite the fact that heels can be overly provocative, no one can really tell where a first date will lead you. You might find yourself walking through the city, or taking a stroll on the beach. If you do wear heels, put some shoe pads in them as you don’t know what the night will bring. And if those heels make you feel more confident, wear them! (just not the 10-inch kind).
- G-Strings
OK, G-strings might have their place, but maybe skip the bright pink g-string worn with those white tight pants!
- Mini Skirts
Wearing a tight mini-skirt on the first date could send off the wrong impression. Plus if you accidentally take a tumble while wearing those 10-inch heels, he might see more than he was bargained for.
- Heavy Make-up
Less is more on the first date, and men these days seem to like the natural look. If their first impression is seeing a cake face full of makeup, then, when they do see you with no make-up “it’s like dating two different girls and it’s false advertising” (one guy has said). So highlight your beautiful features, don’t cover them up with drag queen look-alike make-up. (unless that is how you usually rock it, then go for it!)
#3. Don’t Forget To Carry Dental Supplies With You
To be on the safe side, bring gum, mints, floss and while you’re at it don’t forget the perfume or deodorant! Proper Hygiene is a must, especially when attracting a potential partner. If you smell like a rotten egg, no ones gonna want to touch you. Furthermore, you never know when you’ll need to pucker up! .;)
#4. Don’t Forget To Have A Friend You Can Call
In case you’re experiencing first-date nerves, ring a friend for a bit of inspiration or support before meeting your date. And in the opposite of what I just stated, you might also need to have that same friend be on stand by in case the date isn’t going well and you need to be bailed out.:)
#5. Avoid The Stalker Talk
See, we realize that you’ve been exploring this person online since you took in their last name. (We don’t point the finger at you, and chances are he’s done likewise to you.) But on the off chance that you begin conversations on their place of graduation, most liked FB pages, or how their hair looked in 2004 then it might be a little creepy.
#6. Don’t Drink And Date
On the list of things not to do on a first date, this ranks pretty high! And I’ve learned my lesson on this one. One glass of wine is fine. But two or more could lead to some unforeseen situations and a real relationship might not be taken seriously.
#7. Don’t Go On A First Date When You’re Feeling Negative
Nobody likes a negative Nancy, so avoid going on a first date while you’re feeling tired, grumpy, stressed or hungover. I once went on a date when I was so tired, that when I got there I couldn’t even speak let alone care less what he was talking about. And on the off chance that you don’t care about where the date is going, end it early.
#8. Try Not To Discuss Your Ex.
This is a huge No! No! on the list of things not to do on a first date. You’ll appear to be unpleasant, stuck in the past and not ready to move forward, and quite frankly caught up in someone else. The main focus should be on your first date.
#9. Don’t Talk Too Much About Work Or Your Crazy Fetishes
- Crazy talk
OK, so if you’re into some crazy ass shit like how aliens are among us, or you have a weird sexual fetish. Perhaps keep that conversation as a wild card down the line. Save some mystery and save yourself another date while you’re at it. Don’t let the crazy out of the bag just yet mmmkay.
- Talking about work
Talking about work on your first date? No way! It will just be boring. The date will be over as soon as it starts. (unless you are an Astronaut or a stunt double for Brad Pitt).
Our jobs in most cases don’t define who we really are, so talk about what they are interested in, or hobbies they enjoy outside of work so you get to know what they are really about. So, do your best to avoid the “work” talk. If you do want to talk about work, just keep it simple. Also, don’t talk about how much or how little you earn. You’re not getting married! (yet;)
#10. Don’t Use Your Phone Too Much
Using your phone all the time while in the company of others is just plain rude and disrespectful. It’s even worse when you’re on a first date and the person is constantly scrolling social media and talking to friends on the phone. Leave the constant snaps of your food and selfies and engage in the human who’s chosen to spend their valuable time with you.
There you have it, all you have to do now is put on a smile, try not to fart and follow these tips for a spectacular first date!
What are your tips on things not to do on a first date? Comment below and share this article with your friends on social media.
Emmy is the founder and content writer at woopdedo. With a background in the performing arts, she then had a career working on cruise ships, until she decided to return to NZ where she spends most of her time storytelling and freelance writing. You can contact her on the social media links below or visit the work with us page.
