So ladies and gentlemen, Valentine’s Day is coming up and you know what that means—all of the people in relationships will be on a romantic date with their significant other while all of the singles are stuck on a date with Ben & Jerry’s, right? Wrong. Instead of dreading Valentine’s Day, why don’t we singles give it a chance and find ourselves a hot date! Most Valentine’s Day articles focus on how to rock the holiday with you partner or how to rock being single, so ladies and gents, here is an article devoted to those willing to give love a shot. But before you ask out that cutie from stats class, make sure you read all about what not to do on a first date.
1. Don’t talk about religion or politics
Don’t get me wrong— it’s great to have opinions and to be passionate about certain matters, but just not on a first date. Let’s save intellectual debates for when you really know the person and won’t drive them away with your opposing perspectives on life.
2. Don’t talk about exes
This is a big no-no. Bringing up your ex brings in competition and a whole slew of complicated emotions for both parties. You don’t want your date to think you aren’t over your ex or you don’t want them to feel awkward.
3. Don’t talk about everything you know about them from virtually creeping
In this day and age, it’s a little unrealistic to think you won’t search your date on Facebook and Instagram before you meet them. I mean hey, you have to make sure they aren’t a psycho killer, right? Just don’t let them know you cyber stalked the past two years of their life and went out of your way to find their exes.
4. Don’t be gross
Although you might be excited for the date, your body might not care. Gas happens, but don’t let it ruin the moment. Try waiting for a good time to toot or just excuse yourself from the table. And don’t forget that burping isn’t cute either.
5. Don’t start giving them nicknames or pet names
You don’t know your date yet! Throwing in a “baby” or “sweetie” will most likely weird them out. Stick with their name for at least a few more dates.
6. Don’t start talking about your future together
Talking about your next date is fine, but let’s hold back on your ideal wedding and the list of baby names you have on your phone.
7. Don’t expect the man to pay
Ladies, we are all broke college students and we live in the 21st century; it’s quite all right to ask if he wants to split the check. And if you do offer to pay, don’t just do it to be polite, you better be prepared to pay when he says yes!
8. Don’t eat garlic, onions, or fish beforehand
Nothing kills the mood like bad breath. But if you can’t resist eating strong smelling foods before your date, make sure to brush your teeth. And you might want to steer clear of poignant foods while on the date just in case there’s a goodnight kiss at the end.
9. Don’t be on your phone
Constantly checking your phone is rude and ruins the moment. You wouldn’t want your date to think you’re bored and are more interested in your phone than them. Whatever is on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter will still be there after your date.
10. Don’t talk endlessly about yourself
It’s good to have fun stories and have self-confidence, but make sure you give your date a chance to be heard too. On the other hand, if you’re super shy, make sure you speak up! A good balance of communication should be present.
So be sure to keep these ten things in mind on your next date and hopefully you can dump Ben & Jerry once and for all. Consider yourself warned and good luck!