Whether you’re on your first date with a new person or the hundredth one with your significant other, you want to have a great time, without embarrassing yourself or being embarrassed by your partner. Likewise, you don’t want to be one of those couples who have nothing to talk about at dinner, and you definitely don’t want to be the date who dominates the conversation and doesn’t let the other person get a word in edgewise.
Following these dos and don’ts of dating etiquette will help you sit back, relax, and enjoy a fulfilling date:
1. Don’t be afraid of silence.
There are so many different styles of communicating that it’s often difficult to use the right style at the right time. A woman who can engage in the conversation at the appropriate time is very sexy. Being a wallflower and not saying anything at all can give off the wrong impression. He may think you’re mad or not enjoying yourself, or he may think, “She’s just not that into me.” On the other hand, a surefire way to turn a man off? Cut him off or don’t let him get a word in. And, remember, a pause in conversation is okay. It’s better to have a moment of silence to collect your thoughts than to talk just to fill the space.
2. Do smile!
The sexiest thing that you can do on a date is smile. More than they’re drawn to a sexy dress, men are attracted to women who smile. But it doesn’t stop there. A beautiful smile is irresistible! You’re like a magnet that will draw people to you. A smile puts everyone at ease and makes you approachable in social situations. If you find yourself in a situation where you feel awkward, try smiling and see if it doesn’t change your environment. How often do we sit with a frown or scowl on our faces? Try smiling instead.
3. Don’t drink too much!
When you are on a date, you may be inclined to drink a little more than usual to help you loosen up. Ladies, do not by any means try to match a man drink for drink. And gentlemen, under no circumstance should you suggest to your date that she drink more than she’s able to handle. You are not in college any more, and your goal on a date is not to get as drunk as possible.
The best way to prevent yourself from getting drunk on a date is to never drink on an empty stomach. It is always best to have a meal or appetizers when alcohol is involved. A very good rule of thumb is to drink one glass of water for every drink you have.
4. Don’t pick up that cell phone!
When you are on a date, be fully present in the moment with the person whom you are on a date with. If he/she set aside time to spend with you, then you should honor it and never take a call or text during your date. Nothing, besides an emergency, is that important that it cannot wait a few hours for you to respond. If you do need to take an urgent call or text, make sure you tell her/him who it is and why you have to take it, so she/he doesn’t assume it’s another woman/man on the other end.
