First Date Tips and Tricks
by THOMPSON
The  first date: what to wear, where to
 go, what to say, what to do and what  not to do. All this pressure to 
make a good first impression can be  daunting. After all, you know 
practically nothing about each other and  the whole point of a first 
date is to judge (as much as we don't like  to admit it) whether or not 
we think we'd like to get to know each  other better. But first dates 
don't have to be elaborate or fancy in  order for you to secure that 
coveted second or third date. There are  some things you will want to do
 and others you will want to avoid on a  first date to ensure its 
success and the possibility of future dates as  well.
When  it comes to dating, it seems 
everyone thinks they're the expert to turn  to for advice. Whether it's 
your friends or your lovable aunts who  constantly inquire about your 
love life, everyone has a dating tip for  you. But we all know what to 
do on a date, don't we? Always have a  smile, listen attentively, be 
yourself, have fun, and the list goes on.  So, if everyone knows the 
tips for successful dating, then why do we go  through so much trouble 
and anxiety about first dates? Maybe it's  because there is no set 
standard of rules anymore.
Once  upon a time, chivalry was the 
norm. Nowadays, some women get offended  when the door is held open or 
their seat is pulled out for them.  Consequently, many single people are
 at a loss when it comes to knowing  what to do and when to do it. And 
while there may not be an ultimate  list of shoulds and should nots, 
there are still some common dating  tips that everyone can agree on.
- It is important to be attentive to your date and this includes listening to what they are saying (and maybe throwing in a question or two) and maintaining eye contact when in a conversation.
- There is nothing worse than meeting your date and not knowing what you're going to do. If you have something planned ahead of time, it shows you put some thought into it.
- If you go out for dinner, why not split the bill? Sure, you were invited out and your date is expected to pay but offer anyway. And if your date picks up the tab, offer to pay the next time. - By all means, call your date if you say you're going to call! If you didn't have a good time then be courteous, and don't promise to get in touch when you really have no intention of doing so.
- Be polite; turn off your cell phone and stop the wandering eyes. There is nothing ruder than taking a casual call from a friend or ogling the waitress at the next table while your date is attempting to hold your attention.
- While talking about past relationships almost always comes up in conversation, don't start telling your date every last detail; they are not your therapist!
- And believe me, chivalry is not dead; women do appreciate it, just don't overdo it boys.
In  this world of women's independence,
 many are taking it upon themselves  to ask the man out. And why not?! 
It shows confidence and is a turn-on  for many men. Keep in mind though,
 confidence is sexy, arrogance is a  turn off.
Many  people will have a different 
answer when you ask them their opinion on  whether or not a kiss is 
acceptable on the first date. Maybe all you  want to do is hold hands or
 snuggle and save the kiss for another date.  It all depends on the 
chemistry between you and whether or not it feels  right. And if it 
does, then go for it. Of course, if the date isn't  going well, feel 
free to end the date early with everyone's favorite  backup "emergency" 
phone call from a friend. Chances are if you're not  having a good time,
 neither is your date!
Hopefully,  this has broadened your 
outlook on the world of "first dates". The  whole point of a first date 
is to figure out if you want to get to know  the person better. 
Remember, when it comes to dating and tips, just  follow your instinct 
and no matter the outcome, have fun, enjoy  yourself, and relax.
 


