10 TIPS FOR A FIRST DATE (AND HOPEFULLY SUBSEQUENT ONES!)

Here are some tips we thought would helpful.

1. NEVER BE LATE (men!!) – Always give yourself enough time to get ready. It’s usually best to make a first date on a Saturday night because you’re less likely to be rushed. Who wants to go on a first date at the end of a hectic work week? Scheduling a date on the weekend will also give you some time to unwind and pray before the date. Most importantly, you will be ready on time!
2. RELAX – Dating should be fun. While it’s okay (and prudent) to have your spiritual antennas up, it’s also okay to relax and enjoy yourself. On a first date you want to be easy going; a person whose fun to hang out with. With dates, too serious too soon is a good way to make that first date the last one.
3. BE CONFIDENT – Even if you’re not feeling 100% on your first date, behave like you do. Remember, you’re 100% in Christ, so walk in that confidence. Don’t put yourself down, and only be self-deprecating if that’s part of your sense of humor. You have reason to be confident (not arrogant), you’re a Christian!
4. NEVER MAKE ASSUMPTIONS – Always look for the good in the other person. They’re going through things just like you are. It’s called life. Add glaring “red flags” to your mental checklist, but don’t make assumptions of minor infractions. They’re nervous just like you.
5. MAKE EYE CONTACT & SMILE – There really isn’t much to be said about this one, but believe me, this action speaks volumes. Stay alerted and interested.
6. HOLD YOUR TONGUE – Refrain from telling your date everything. Save something for later. Share your life story like it’s a junior high essay (a couple of 8-sentence paragraphs), not an epic novel. Do more listening than talking. From a spiritual perspective, you’ll discern a lot more from the date if you listen rather than blab the whole night.
7. ACCEPT & GIVE COMPLIMENTS – Both of these actions show that you’re confident. Don’t be overly flirtatious or condescending, but punctuate the date with a few compliments, and graciously accept them when given. The Bible speaks often of building others up with words. There’s no better way to bring out the best in a person than to speak fondly of them.
8. EMPHASIZE YOUR SIMILARITIES – When you come across a topic of similar interest during a conversation, let the dialogue flow. Avoid being dismissive of things the other person says or feels strongly about. The last thing you want to do is get into an argument on a first date. Many a first dates that never became romantic turned out to be great friendships. There’s always room in your life for more friends who share your values & beliefs.
9. DON’T DISCUSS PROBLEMS – Save the “drama talk” for your momma or best friend. Never use a first date as a therapy session. Gossip, whining and complaining will only poison a first date, and will likely make future dating possibilities null & void.
10. EXPECT THE BEST – Don’t go into a first date looking for things to go wrong. The worst thing that can happen is a bad date can be chalked up as experience. And at least you’ll have a revelation of who isn’t Mr. or Mrs. Right. The Bible tells us that our expectation and hope should come from the Lord. With that in mind, you should go on your first date believing Romans 8:28: that regardless of how it turns out, it’s going to work together for your good!