Acing your first date can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience, setting the stage for a potential future relationship. The key to making a great first impression lies in being yourself and embracing authenticity. It’s important to approach the date with a positive mindset and focus on enjoying the moment rather than stressing about the outcome. Preparation is crucial; take some time to think about interesting conversation topics and questions that can help you learn more about your date while showcasing your own interests and personality. Confidence is incredibly attractive, so carry yourself with self-assurance. Dress in a way that makes you feel comfortable and confident, as this will naturally boost your self-esteem. Remember, a genuine smile and good eye contact can go a long way in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Be an active listener, showing genuine interest in what your date has to say. This not only demonstrates respect but also helps build a strong connection.

1) Look your best!! shower, brush your hair, and put on some makeup (if you wear it). Dress in clean, wrinkle-free clothes that are good for whatever you’re doing, and make sure you feel comfortable and confident. When you look your best, you’ll feel your best, even if you’re a bit nervous!

2) When you set a time for your date, stick to it! Leave with plenty of time to get there to make a good first impression. If you’re going to be late, send your date a text to let them know so they aren’t waiting around.

• Being late to a first date doesn’t give you a very good reputation, and it might frustrate your date.
• If you’re super late, your date might even leave without meeting you, which is disappointing for both of you.

3) Keep your phone on silent: Your date can’t get to know you if you’re scrolling through Instagram! Slide your phone into your pocket or your purse and keep it there as much as possible. If you do need to check your phone quickly, explain to your date that you just need a moment, and try to keep it brief

4) Listen when your date talks. When you ask your date questions, really stop and listen to what they’re saying. Absorb the information they tell you so you can get to know them better and see if you’d like to continue the relationship. You can also ask follow-up questions to whatever they tell you to show that you were listening.

• It can be tough to really listen when you’re nervous, especially if you’re thinking of what to say next. It’s okay if you can’t memorize everything your date says right now!

5) Everyone likes to laugh, and it can make your first-date jitters go away. Try throwing in a little light humor every now and then to show your date that you have a funny sense of humor. This can even help your date feel more comfortable, too. You could say:

• “My five-year plan includes avoiding a career at all costs. How about you?”

6) Tell your date that you love their outfit, their hair, or their laugh. Everyone loves to be flattered, especially by a potential romantic partner! Try to keep it to one or two compliments throughout the date so you don’t seem overeager.

• You could say something like, “I really like your smile, it opens up your whole face.”
• Or, “Your hair looks really good tonight, I like it slicked back like that.”

7) Debating about religion or politics isn’t a great way to get to know your date. Stay away from those topics as much as you can, and save them for later on when you both know each other a little better. Similarly, you should probably avoid talking about your ex too much (or at all). It might make you seem like you’re not over them, which can make your date nervous.

8) Breaking the touch barrier shows someone that you’re interested in them. If you find the opportunity, try gently touching your date’s forearm, elbow, or shoulder. Physical touch makes a massive difference.  Keep it light and quick so you don’t make your date uncomfortable, and back off if they don’t seem into it.

• You could say “I love your watch!” and grab their hand to get a closer look.
• Try lightly touching your date’s arm when you laugh at a joke.
• If your date touches you on the arm or the shoulder, it’s a good sign that they’re into you.

9) Saying goodbye is the last impression you leave your date with. Try not to rush it! It takes a minute to give your date a hug or a handshake. If you’d like to, talk about plans for getting in touch in the future.

• You could say something like, “I really had a good time tonight. Would you like to do this again sometime?”

  In conclusion, acing your first date is all about being genuine, confident, and considerate. By focusing on these aspects, you can create a memorable experience that lays the foundation for a meaningful connection. So go ahead, embrace the excitement, and make that first date one to remember!