Although every first date can be nerve-wracking, there are some clear and cringe-worthy no-nos. Save yourself from an agonizing second date, let alone relationship, by taking note of these major red flags.
1) He only talks about himself/his interests.
Sometimes guys just don’t know when to shut up, whether they’re talking about their favorite football player or the newest Xbox game. Trying to find common ground is next to impossible when he’s basically having a conversation with himself.Verdict: He may just be nervous, blabbering to fill any possible awkward silence. Find a moment to take hold of the conversation and follow up with a series of “I” statements so he can get to know more about you. If he keeps turning the conversation back on himself? This date is a total FAIL.
2) He forgot his wallet.
Well, on the plus side at least there’s no awkward “are you gonna pay or are we gonna split the bill” questions/chivalry debates.Verdict: FAIL. Don’t worry, the waiter/waitress is judging him just as hard as you are.
3) He’s a messy eater.
Okay, we get that guys aren’t always as clean as girls, but there’s a reason there’s a napkin on the table.Verdict: Go with the classic, “Oh, you’ve got something right here,” and point to it on your face. If he waves you off, this guy isn’t going to make even the slightest effort when you guys hang out together. Having to stare at the bits of crumbs stuck around his mouth is punishment enough. FAIL.
4) He keeps buying you drink after drink even after you insist that you’ve had enough for the night.Verdict: FAIL. No explanation needed. Creep.
5) He’s extremely one-minded.
Witty banter can be sexy, but not when a guy insists that your opinion is wrong. Besides, everyone knows the girl is also right, even if she’s wrong. Duh.
Verdict: If he disagrees with you, no big deal. Difference in opinion. But if he tries to force his opinions onto you? We’ve got an opinion for him: FAIL. Bye Felicia.
6) He’s rude to the waiter/waitress.
This is major. The way a guy treats employees is very telling of his character. If he’s a douche to someone he barely knows, don’t be surprised when he shows you his douchey ways.
Verdict: FAIL. Everyone deserves to be treated with basic respect. Well, except maybe him.
7) He keeps talking about his ex.
“My ex loved this song!” Did she really? Cool, now you have one more reason not to like her. I mean, come on. Who actually likes “Blurred Lines?”
Verdict: This guy is clearly still hung up on someone else and it’s never fun being the “other” woman, even if they’re not together anymore. He probably still cries himself to sleep over this break-up. FAIL.