Tips for a Successful First Date

By Jayde Johanssen

Men frequently whine about what odd and complicated creatures women are. The whole women are from Venus and men are from Mars spiel justifies their woefully inadequate love lives. Women are hard to put a finger on, according to many single men.

You don't need to be Tom Cruise, however, to get the gal. Dating isn't such a difficult task. It's not an obstacle course after all. Woman are human beings too. Just follow a few standard rules and you're all set to go. Your first outing could signal the beginning of something wonderful.

Keep in mind that despite the stress associated with the first date, it should be a fun, romantic and light. It's nothing too formal, you're not dating the queen. But that doesn't mean that you can get away with having a soda at Taco Bell's. There are two steadfast expectations: you pick the girl up and you go somewhere, usually requiring a reservation of some sort.

The thoughtful gentleman always has something planned in advance. A first date isn't something you can plan on the fly. You usually need to make reservations or purchase tickets beforehand. It really needn't be too fancy, but you do need a plan.

Don't do your lady a disfavor by underestimating her worth. Even if your date is laid back and prefers hiking in the wild to going shopping, do not make plans that are too casual. Typically women expect men to invest in things that they value, either with time, cash, enthusiasm, or creativity. If you don't follow this expectation, do expect to be brushed aside. Your actions show a woman who you are, remember that.

Phone calls are important. Don't leave your date hanging. This means call with time to confirm your date. Leaving it to the last minute causes unnecessary anxiety and will perhaps lead to a spoiled date. Women take a lot of time to prep for a date, so it's a given courtesy that you don't just swing by at the last minute.

Don't be late. Punctuality is good form. Being late shows your date that you don't value her time. Besides if you are late you're already jeopardizing your date. It simply looks bad and your date won't be happy. If you know you're going to be late, again, pick up the phone as soon as you can.

Compliments are a great way to win your lady's heart--in moderation however. If you are too profuse, you will come off as disingenuous or ingratiating. It never hurts to tell your date that she looks like a million bucks. She'll appreciate it.

Women spend a lot of time and a fair amount of cash in preparing for a date. They go to their hair dresser's and get manicures. Grooming is expensive. Pick up the check, your date has already shelled out a small fortune just to be there.

If you find that the date isn't so great, be kind yet firm. Say something along the lines of, thanks for coming, it was nice meeting you. Don't say you'll call when you know you won't.

If the date goes well, make sure your date knows you had a good time and set up another date before the night is over. Walk her to her door. Be a gentleman, but take things to the next level if she's willing. - 31991

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