First dates are nerve-wracking enough without having to remember a bunch of arbitrary rules you’re supposed to follow. But if you think about it, if you’re following all the same rules as every other girl, how will you ever stand out? Your flaws are what make you unique and beautiful, so why hide them? Of course, there are always some things you shouldn’t do on a first date, like propose, or list off every guy you’ve ever slept with, but in general being yourself is the only rule you should actually follow.
- Waiting for him to ask you out. Why wait around for him to do the asking every time? You’ve got nothing to lose by biting the bullet and seeing if he’d be down for a simple coffee date, because let’s face it, if you wait for him to ask, you might be waiting awhile.
- Expecting the guy to pay. You should always at least offer to pay for your half. Whether he accepts or not is his choice, but you shouldn’t assume he’ll take care of it, especially if you’re the one who asked him out in the first place.
- Making him plan the entire thing. How is he supposed to know what you do and do not like? Guys always like when you take a little of the pressure off and suggest a fun activity rather than expecting him to take you to a fancy dinner every time.
- Refusing to go beyond a kiss on the cheek. No one’s saying you have to sleep with the guy on the first date, but there’s nothing wrong with a little making out if the chemistry is there, and the mood strikes.
- Never asking about past relationships. You don’t need to interrogate him about why all his past relationships didn’t work out or anything, but asking a question or two about what kind of girls he’s dated in the past might give you an idea of what he’s attracted to, and if you two are really compatible.
- Avoiding topics like religion and politics. There’s no need to have a lengthy debate about your religious beliefs or political ideals, but getting a general idea of the things that are important to each other can’t be a bad idea.
- Letting him call the shots. Why wait for him to answer first when the waitress asks if you want another round? If you want one, go for it!
- Not ordering any messy food. There’s no way he’s not getting the pound of wings with extra BBQ sauce, so why should you hold back? He’ll love how laid back and adventurous you are, and that you aren’t afraid to get a little dirty.
- Seeming too aloof and mysterious. Playing hard to get is cool and all, but how can you expect him to ask you out on a second date if you seem completely uninterested during the first date? This is your opportunity to flirt, so don’t hold back.
- Waiting for him to make the first post-date move. You’ve already asked him out, helping plan the date, offered to pay, and ordered the messiest thing on the menu. Don’t let it all go to waste now by reverting back to traditional gender role behavior. Do the unexpected and he’s guaranteed to be even more intrigued than he was before.
