Chiugo Akaolisa : Tips On How Not to Botch Your First Date

It is super exciting when we meet someone new and even more so when we decide to spend time with them. We set up a first meeting with the hope of finding out if the person is worth the trouble.
While it is very important to look extra pretty and well put-together, it is absolutely imperative to understand the basic principles of a first date.

At this point, I am writing with the hope that you didn’t forget to shower, groom properly, wear a captivating fragrance, and take money along with you. Nobody likes to wash plates, if you know what I mean.

The first and most important rule of a first date is to take your brains with you and leave your genitals at home. Months of painful and vague relationship standings can be avoided if this rule is applied. It is amazing if your date is attractive and smoking hot but if you hone in on that, it is nobody’s fault if he/she only wanted sex from you, months down the line.

You are not too forward if you ask questions. “Are you married or seeing anyone?: should be in the top 3. I mean, isn’t the purpose of a date to develop something long-term and not be someone’s play toy? With the exception that you got their number from casualsex.com or nothingserious.ng, then ask away. If you hate partners who cannot dance or don’t share your religious beliefs, asking will save you the investment of a second date and a horrible break-up when you later realize the incompatibility. Remember, he/she is not on trial so learn to slip questions into conversations and be coy about it.

Please keep an open mind. If you have never seen the person before, Instagram filters may leave you feeling betrayed or your friend who setup the date may have exaggerated a bit. Remember, what is on the inside is what counts and you may just see it if your mind is open to the new experience.

Leave your sorrows in the car and put on a charming smile. Nobody likes a pity party. No, he doesn’t want to hear about your financial troubles and she doesn’t want to hear about your cheating ex. The trick is to share not scare!

Go to a public place with a lot of people. If he/she is a serial killer or rapist, they are less likely to strike when other people are present. Also, it is a good indicator that he/she is not afraid to be seen in public with you.

There are two people in the date so learn to involve the other person. Do not constantly talk about yourself and your accomplishments. I understand that you think you are the next best thing after sliced bread but you run the risk of appearing self-absorbed or narcissistic. It is an early-sign of a disaster.
Alcohol is one of very few liquids capable of turning a good person into an idiot. Please limit your alcohol content. If you walk away sober or slightly tipsy at the end of your date then you have succeeded. When you are not drunk, it is easier to recollect the information that was shared and pick up hints. You are also more likely to keep your hands to yourself; trust me, it’s a good thing.

Please have fun; that is the whole point in the first place. Drop the attitude and open up. You be amazed at the things that fill your pages when you go as an open book.

These rules do not guarantee a successful date or relationship but they may help in steering you towards the right direction if applied properly. I hope you remembered to brush or pop in mints. Do not read these principles or attempt a first date if your breath is less than perfect.

Good Luck!

Photo Credit: Dreamstime | Mjth