The world is round.
The sun always rises and sets.
And first dates can be awkward.
It’s just the way of life.
So what is it that makes first dates so weird?
“You’re both aware that you’re evaluating each other.
You’re both trying to strike a balance between making a good impression and being your authentic self.
With all this going on, of course things can be awkward.”
It can seem hard, maybe even impossible to avoid, but it’s not.
I talked to psychologists and relationship experts to get their secrets on how to truly release awkwardness and tension.
Hey, it might even lead to date number two!
Putting pressure on the future of this one date, can make things really awkward.
Youdo nothave to decide if you want to marry this person on the first date."
So, she suggests letting yourself off the hook, and focusing on the moment.
Not all first dates are the last first date.
And that’s ok!
I’m just kind of nervous.'
This playful, vulnerable, relaxed attitude is almost impossible for awkwardness to penetrate.
Avoid certain controversial topics
There are certain topics that are just inappropriate to bring up with strangers.
And technically, your dateisa stranger.
“Talking about them would signal poor judgment and interpersonal boundaries, and make your date feel awkward.”
When your date feels awkward, that awkwardness is going to seep into the whole interaction.
Most of these topics won’t be important until you’re getting more serious in a relationship, anyway.
Acknowledge any awkwardness
First datesareawkward it just is what it is, and sometimes it just happens!
“Itisodd to sit down with someone you hardly know and have a one-on-one conversation,” Whitney reassures.
So just own up to what it is, allowing the both of you to move past it.
“The best way to reduce awkwardness is to be truly curious about your date.
Who is this person?
What makes him tick?
What’s interesting about her?
What do you have in common?
What’s different, but maybe intriguing?”
Martinez points out the importance of abundance with curiosity.
“You’re there to start the process of getting to know a stranger, which takes time.”
This may make your date feel uncomfortable, which may then transform into awkward tension.
This small act will surely ease uncertain feelings.
“A few minutes of preparation will do wonders in calming first date nerves. "
The whole idea here, is to make both parties feel comfortable, and ease the mood.
So, then what?
“There is no “worst case” scenario if the date is not enjoyable.
You don’t have to see them again,” says LaCota.
“If it’s not a match no harm, no foul, just move onto the next!”
Trombetti reminds you that you aren’t in this alone.
It’s practice for when you meet the right one.”
Just keep it light, don’t get ahead of yourself andenjoyyour experience.
