Many people would argue that the hardest part of dating is the first date. First dates can be stressful and awkward, but they don't have to be.
Follow this 3-step magic formula to better first dates each and every time:
1. First, be aware of the fact that it's completely normal for people to be nervous before a first date. So if you're nervous, that's OK. Nervous is the norm. Your date is probably nervous, too. Just take a deep breath and smile.
2. Next, focus on having on fun. Remember, this is only a date. It's not the Spanish Inquisition. And it's most definitely not a job interview. Focus on enjoying yourself. If you have fun, your date is likely to have fun, too.
3. Find a way to genuinely compliment your date within the first 15 minutes of meeting. Be sincere and be specific. For example, if you're talking about a current event you can say, "That's an interesting way of looking at ....., I never thought of it that way." Or you can compliment a specific feature of your date's appearance/clothing: "That's such a pretty necklace" or "You look lovely in that dress" or "I really like the cologne you're wearing". There's no need to go overboard. Just a simple compliment.
Complimenting your date early in the evening will give them a little ego boost. In turn, they'll feel a bit more confident and maybe even more relaxed.
