—————
You might have the perfect outfit picked out and made sure that your smell like a meadow of wildflowers, but there’s something more important to consider when wanting to put your best foot forward – How’s your charisma?
Adam & Eve poses an interesting question to those currently searching for their perfect partner: “Would You Go Out With Yourself?” Many people have a list of qualities they’re looking for in a partner, but they don’t take into consideration whether they’re portraying someone with the same desired qualities. In fact, there are some things you could be doing, that you don’t even realize, that could be giving people the wrong impression of your personality.
Obviously being yourself is crucial for setting the stage to an honest relationship, but some of your behaviors can be very off-putting to your date. This isn’t to say you have to dazzle and memorize your them with enchanting stories, but anyone going on a date should be aware of their actions just as much as how they look.
Listen More
Marie Claire states in an article that many people make the mistake of talking too much during a date. It’s understandable that you want to avoid any awkward silences on your date, but dominating the conversation can be even more discouraging, especially if the person you’re with is shy. To avoid seeming self-centered, make sure you ask your date about themselves. Someone who is more reserved may need a little encouragement to contribute to the conversation.
Mind Your Table Manners
Your table manners will also tell your date a lot about you. Some people might find it unnecessary to keep your elbows off the table or use the correct fork for your salad and entree, but there are some things that are universally agreed upon as necessary etiquette when sharing a meal with someone. You don’t have to act like you’re eating with the queen, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find someone who can tolerate a date who chews with their mouth open, belches during a meal, and gets too drunk.
Be Polite
It might go without saying, but your date is going to notice how you treat the people around you. Sometimes nerves can distract you from doing things you otherwise might not think twice about, so remember to say please and thank you to the server, and try to stay positive throughout the evening. Be receptive to your date’s stories by making eye-contact and relative comments. No one wants to go out with someone who seems bored with them. Even if you don’t see a second date in the future, there is no point in being rude and making the other person feel bad.
It’s nothing more than a little self-awareness, but it can make all the difference for how your date views you. Just be courteous, be yourself and don’t let your nerves get the best of you. If you start to feel anxious, remember your date is probably feeling the same. You only get one first date with someone, so try and have some fun with it!
