Top tips for first dates

First dates can be great, but also have the potential to be a bit awkward. It's natural to feel nervous and overthink a little, but follow these tips and you can't go far wrong.

1) Comfort is key!

People tend to fall into the trap of overthinking their clothes and makeup before the

date but put your own comfort first! Overthinking can reflect on the person you’re

seeing and affect how you approach the date. There are many other factors to

consider first, so don't drive yourself mad trying to impress them! Sometimes

approaching it as if they were a friend is quite helpful. It lessens the expectations

before or during the date, making the chemistry between you less forced.

2) Set your boundaries.

Never do something that you are not completely comfortable with. Their response to

you setting your boundaries should help you to decide whether a second date should

be planned. Meeting a complete stranger can be scary, so turning on your location for a

friend could be beneficial (even better if it ends in a shambles). Sometimes a few

drinks can help, especially as university students, going somewhere local is great to

find places or events you both enjoy.

3) Relax

Remember to genuinely relax. Pre-planning conversations can be stifling. It doesn’t

only make you seem more nervous but in turn makes it more scripted. Best to keep

an open mind physically and mentally. But don’t shy away from making suggestions.

Either person should feel comfortable taking the reins and showing off their interests

(obviously without being snobby). In-person communication can be super different,

so if you’ve spoken before the actual date, remembering small details can make

someone really happy and show that you have been listening.

4) Don't change yourself

Be yourself! If you’re feeling nervous there is absolutely no harm in saying so. This

emphasises emotional vulnerability. Their reaction may even make you more

comfortable, especially if they feel the same way! This leads to a more positive

outlook on the date as you have found commonality. (Always a bonus!) I've found that

asking questions is extremely important. Even asking them what the worst date that

they have had can lead to a multitude of conversations so you can learn more about

them. Maybe cheekily suggest that your second date could be better.

Good luck and be safe!

Edited by Caitlin Hart