So you’re finally meeting that special someone in person, after talking to them for quite a while online. While it sure sounds exciting, at the same time, it can be nerve-racking. You get excited that you’ll finally be able to see them in the flesh and somehow scared that they might be different from how they portrayed themselves online or how you imagine them to be.
Well, being on your first date is a fun experience and it can determine whether it’s still a good idea to continue your relationship or not.
Here are some tips that you can use in order to ensure a successful first date with someone you met online:
1. Don’t expect too much.
Sometimes you tend to create a perfect picture of that person you met online – don’t. You’ll just disappoint yourself if your expectations are not met. It’s your first date so you still have many things to discover about each other. Avoid assuming according to your expectations. Set aside your personal judgment and assumptions because it is unfair to your date.
2. Choose the venue for your first date.
Choosing the venue where you should meet for the first time is an advantage because you can pick a place that you’re comfortable with. Have your date at your favorite restaurant, café, or museum. This way, you can relax because you are familiar with the place – but make sure that your date agrees with your choice, too.
3. Dress comfortably.
One of the things you have to consider when preparing for your date is your attire. How you dress will affect how your date sees you. Of course, you shouldn’t change the way you dress or your style for other people. Any kind of clothing is fine as long as you are confident in it and you’re comfortable. Don’t risk your comfort just because you want to impress your date.
4. Inform someone about your date.
Your safety is very important. Even though you trust your date, it’s still best if you let another person know about your whereabouts just in case something unexpected happens. You don’t fully know this person so it’s best to be cautious.
This doesn’t mean that you’re betraying the trust of your date. This is just a precautionary measure that everyone should actually do whenever they go with someone who is practically a stranger.
5. Don’t be late.
As much as possible, avoid being late on your first date. This will give your date a bad impression of you. Tardiness can be interpreted as being irresponsible. If you promised to be there by eight in the evening, be there on time or better yet, be there earlier. But don’t go there too early because your date might think that you’re too eager.
6. Respect your differences.
You might find differences between you and your date once you meet in person. You have to understand that you have different experiences and preferences. Thus, how you process and see things will most likely be different.
Respect who and what they are and also learn to adjust. Don’t let these differences ruin your wonderful time together.
7. Have fun.
Don’t forget that you’re on a date and you’re supposed to have fun. If you’re feeling nervous and anxious, calm yourself. Do your best to enjoy the special moment because the person whom you were always talking to for a while is now in front of you. This date is special since it’s your first. Enjoy it.
8. Be yourself.
Of course, you might want to impress your date by telling them that you like what they like and what they’re interested in. However, this will only create future problems especially if they find out the truth.
Just act how you usually act and don’t pretend to be who you’re not. If your date doesn’t like how you laugh or doesn’t understand your humor, you shouldn’t worry about that. Be true to yourself and if your date doesn’t like it, it’s not your fault.
9. Speak your mind.
You have to say what is in your mind so that you’ll know each other better – as long as you’re not being rude or disrespectful. Remember that this is your first meeting after talking to each other online. This is your chance to get to know each other more so it won’t help if you won’t communicate well.
Don’t be afraid that your date won’t like you anymore if you disagree with their opinions or if you don’t like the same food. Again, be true to yourself.
10. Avoid inappropriate topics.
Yes, you have to be conversant when you’re on a date because this will show that you’re interested in them. However, you also have to be mindful of the topics you choose to talk about. If you know that you’re date doesn’t want to talk about religion, politics, or family matters, respect it.
Also, if you unintentionally said or commented on something you shouldn’t have, apologize immediately.
11. Be present.
A lot of people nowadays don’t pay attention to their dates because they are busy with their phones. When you’re with your date, make sure that you give them your full attention. Listen to their stories, ask questions and share your own stories.
Show interest when they are telling you about something, no matter how boring you think it is. You are on a date so your focus should only be given to them.
12. Say thank you.
Don’t forget to say thank you to your date before you part ways. Show them that you’re grateful for the time they had given you. Tell them that you had a great time with them. This will not only make them happy but will also boost their confidence.
Hearing a simple “thank you” from someone is always better than nothing.
Taking the risk by going on a date with someone you met online can be exciting but you also have to make sure that you are ready to meet that person. Ask yourself if it’s the right time to finally see each other or if you still need more opportunities to get to know them.
Make all the necessary preparations. Are you emotionally and physically ready for that date? It can make you feel anxious but remember to just have fun. Good luck!
ALSO READ: 11 Tips for Your First Date after Meeting Online
If a man I got from online comes to see me for the very first date, he spends more than a day, is it okay to go a head and have sex on the second or third day of that first visit?
I like point 9 Speak Your Mind. It is important to be yourself and not hold back your thoughts as long as they are constructive.