First dates can be some of the most anxiety-inducing experiences people go through. No matter how many you go on there always seems to be that element of concern; will they like you? Will you like them? Are you unknowingly going to have spinach in your teeth for a large portion of the date? The worries can be endless. Luckily, there are few steps you can take to prepare yourself better, and no matter how confident you are, taking these steps before you go will leave you feeling that little bit extra prepared and confident.
Picking an appropriate outfit is a must. This is usually decided based on what time of the day or night, your date will take place and where your meeting is going to be.
For example, if you’re meeting at a local coffee shop for a coffee date or going to the cinema; you can dress a little more casual. However, if you are going to a fancy restaurant, you definitely need to pick something a little more elegant. Knowing in advance where you’re going is a must so you can choose your outfit accordingly.
Skincare is a must at all times, but especially when preparing for a first date. Investing in a decent moisturiser will help even out your skin tone, reduce pores and combat fine lines and wrinkles. When you know your skin is looking its best, you’ll automatically feel more confident in yourself.
Often, a simple facial scrub and moisturiser will do as long as you keep up your skincare routine every day. However, if you want to go that extra mile, it might be worth investing in an exfoliating or dermaplaning facial. These will guarantee that your skin is looking its absolute best on your date. If you’ve never had a facial before, it might be best getting one a week or so before your date in case your skin has a bad reaction and needs time to calm down.
As with skincare, hair care is important when you’re trying to up your confidence levels and boost your chances with your date. Like skin, hair is something that can’t easily be hidden on a date and is definitely one of the physical traits that your prospective other will notice first.
Freshly washed hair is a must; not only will it smell better, but it will look better as well. Pick a hairstyle that compliments your face shape. For example, if you have a rectangular face, layered cuts and curls can help soften your face shape. Colouring your hair right before date might not be the best idea unless you get your hair coloured regularly, again, you want to avoid an allergic reaction.
Eye drops are good for general eye health, but they can also make your eyes appear brighter. Using eye drops moistens your eyes and not only makes your eyes feel better and generally less irritated, but the extra moisture in your eyes can make them look bigger and brighter. During the conversation, most people tend to focus on each other’s eyes, so making your eyes look attractive and healthy is definitely important.
This should go without saying, but you’d be surprised how often this doesn’t happen. Brushing your teeth before you leave is a crucial step in getting ready for a first date. Apart from the fact that you’ll feel better about yourself with fresh breath, but according to a study by the Oral Health Foundation, bad breath is the number one reason people would not ask someone out for a second date, with 35% of people saying it is a massive turn off. If you’re going for coffee or dinner, it might also be a good idea to keep some mints or gum with you to keep your breath fresh throughout your date.
Taking steps to calm your nerves is an essential step when preparing for a first date. While it’s okay to be nervous, allowing yourself to get too nervous or worried can impact how you act on your date, and you surely want to show your date the most confident and relaxed version of yourself.
There are lots of effective methods to help you relax before going on a first date. Some people like to meditate or have a small alcoholic drink for that little bit of Dutch courage; however, as alcohol can change your behaviour, it might be wise to steer clear of it initially.
Another practical way to relax would be to get some benefits of CBD oil. CBD doesn’t change your behaviour but can reduce stress and anxiety as well as improve your concentration so you can pay attention to everything your date is saying; who doesn’t love a good listener? CBD products are available in many shapes and sizes from edibles to vaping, topicals, and beauty products. Try a few different options to find what works best for you.
This kind of ties in with the tip above but talking to your friends or family members about your date is a great way to get yourself mentally prepared. They can offer tips and advice on places to go and what clothing items they think suit you best, or simply lend an ear for you to verbalise your anxiety. Talking about something is always a good way to instantly make it feel less daunting. It’s also a good idea to let someone know where you’re going and who you’re going to be with. You can never be too careful.
This is arguably the most vital tip of all. While the other tips in this article are intended to make you feel better prepared and less anxious, none of them is designed to change who you are, just to give you that extra confidence to showcase the best version of you. If you’re naturally funny; be funny. If not, that’s okay too. At the end of the day, dating should be a great and fun pastime. Don’t take it too seriously and just remember that you are amazing just the way you are.
James Bay writes articles, which, considering where you’re reading this, makes perfect sense. He’s best known for writing Business, social issues, including the PATCH best author and writer.