Archive for February, 2010

How To Be At Your Best On A First Date

Friday, February 19th, 2010

When it comes to first dates, the impression you make is of the utmost importance. Before you can expect your potential love interest to invest their time and heart in order to know the “real” you, you need to show him or her that you are worth the risk by dressing presentably and engaging in thoughtful conversation. Clothes, conversation and behavior are the major elements that need fine tuning before you step out with confidence on a first date.

Clothes

The clothing you select for your first date will depend a great deal on where it is you are planning to go. Fancy dinner warrants slacks and a button-down shirt or sweater for men and a cute dress or blouse/slacks option for women. Leave your jeans at home if you are looking to impress. Casual outings allow for jeans but be sure to dress it up a bit with a well-chosen tailored shirt for men or a cute sundress or jeans/sweater combo for women. If you have no idea where your date is going to take you, go casual with a chic edge. Nice jeans, a sassy blouse and sexy but comfortable shoes for women work nicely on “surprise” dates and nice jeans with a button designer shirt and nice shoes do well for men.

Conversation

Many men and women complain that the biggest problem with first dates is their partner talks too much about themselves instead asking thoughtful questions. One big reason for this may be that both men and women can get nervous on first dates and try too hard to impress their prospective love interest. You may be wise to come up with a few questions before you pick up your date. Make these questions general but genuine. Asking about your date’s favorite bands, books or public figures is safe but nonetheless effective. Be sure that you are really listening to your date’s responses instead of thinking ahead to your next question so that your date feels heard and appreciated. Share about your own likes and dislikes, as well, so that your date can get a good feel for who you are and what you spend your time doing.

Behavior

Traditional etiquette should be followed where possible, such as the male pulling out the chairs and opening the doors. It is no longer necessary for the male to order for the female in restaurants or coffee shops, unless she gives you an indication that she would prefer it. Beyond this, one great rule of thumb is to treat your date as if they are more important than you are. Preferring your date’s needs to your own will help him or her to feel safe. When people feel safe, they are more likely to open up and share who they really are with you. The more real your date can get, the more you will be able to gauge your true compatibility.

Dating in a New City

Tuesday, February 16th, 2010

Moving to a new city can be a scary experience; to some people, getting into the dating scene may be even scarier by comparison. And combining them, of course, just makes it worse. But finding love does not have to be a particularly stressful experience; there are certain things you can do to ensure that you will find your special someone while adjusting to a different life. Above all, remember that you are not alone in your endeavor.

If you do not necessarily want to meet anyone in a crowded room or otherwise public place, online dating could be just the thing. There are countless sites out there created for this specific purpose, and new people sign up at these places every day, so you’re bound to find someone that suits you. You can choose to talk to people from all over the world, or even a few miles away. While many of these services are free, some will only let you create a profile for free and expect you to pay for everything else. It is up to you whether you think the investment is worth it. Consider a trial run before taking it further.

Sit down and write a list of your interests and hobbies. By taking into account what you enjoy, you can then decide on fun places to visit while you scout for dates. For example, if you like to listen to music, a music store or theater could work very well. In a city there is bound to be a few of them, so check online or a phonebook for more information.

A party is an excellent way to develop friendships and create new bonds. If you have made any friends during your transition in a new city, call them and ask if they could bring along any single people they know to the event. If nothing else you may receive a few helpful leads.

Most importantly, if you are wondering how to meet new people successfully, you must remember to be yourself. Smile and act courteously to others, taking care that you don’t unintentionally insult or frighten them. Don’t push or act desperate, and sooner or later you’re going to achieve your dream of arranging a date.