Looking to Make a Good Impression on Your Date? Try These 11 Things

Dating can be nerve-wrecking and stressful. What should you talk about? How much should you talk about yourself? How badly do you want to impress the person you’re on a date with? And how far will you go to impress him or her? Unfortunately, we can get too caught up on impression our date that it may come across as too much. Trying too hard to impress someone can come across as unnatural. You may be perceived as not being genuine, which is never a good thing if you’re really into the person you’re on the date with. Good impressions are important, but it’s also important to no over-do those first impressions. Let’s take a look at eleven things you can do that will help you make a good impression without coming on to strong, impressing your date and paving the way to more dates to come.

Always be a Good Listener

Being a good listener is a surefire way to make a good impression on your date. When you actually hear what your date has to day, it will leave a positive impression on them, not to mention a lasting one. People like to be heard. And in truly listening to your date, you’ll be one step closer to forging a deep and meaningful connection.

Keep the Conversation Balanced

During your date time conversation, make sure you’re keeping things balanced. You don’t want to always be talking about yourself. That’s not going to leave a good impression with your date. Instead, keep the balance between learning more about your date and providing information about yourself as well. In keeping it balanced, your date will appreciate that you’re willing to listen to them.

Keep the Negativity Away

Constantly complaining and being negative on a date is usually a complete turn-off, especially on a first or second date. That doesn’t mean you have to lie and pretend like your life is the greatest thing ever, but it does mean it’s best to not get too negative during your date conversations. Keep it light and positive, giving your date and equally positive impression. Then once you’ve been dating for a while, you two can more easily discuss the heavier, more negative aspects that come up in conversation.

Don’t Head into Argument-Inducing Territory

This is especially true for the first few dates. Keep the conversations on neutral territories. Touchy subjects like politics and religion can lead to arguments, which is never good on a date. Hold off on bringing up such argumentative topics until the two of you know each other better.

Be a Name-Dropper

Though we may not be aware of it, we do like to hear our own names being spoken. And if it’s done while on a date…even better. Dropping your date’s name throughout the conversations will make your date feel like you’re more engaged with him or her and shows that them that they are important to you, which will definitely leave a lasting impression.

Don’t Forget to Breathe

Everyone deals with the nerves that come with a first or second date. Don’t stress, however, it’s all good. Just remember to breathe. Take a few deep breaths in and out and allow yourself to feel calm and confident.

Make Your Date Feel Special

We all like to feel special…especially when we’re on a date. Chances are, your date is going to remember how you made him or her feel more than what was said on the date. So, be present in the moment, listen to your date, and charm them by making them feel like they really are something special.

Steer Clear of Those Typical Date Games

It’s better to be direct and to the point rather than playing the games of subtlety and ambiguity. If you’re have a great time, tell your date. If you’d love to go out again with them, tell them that too. Honestly will always be appreciated and leave a much better impression than someone who is trying to play a game of cat and mouse or playing hard to get.

Wear Something that is Sure to Catch Their Attention

Of course, you should always wear what you’re most comfortable in. However, don’t be afraid to also consider something that is eye-catching. Your goal is to leave a positive, lasting impression on your date. So, go with an outfit that is totally you but will totally leave them wanting more!

Take a Bad Date in Stride

Not all dates are going to go perfectly. So, whether it’s turning out to be a lackluster date or just plain terrible, it’s best to stay calm and take it all in stride. You can still keep the conversation pleasant and make the best of the evening.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun

Dates don’t have to be the typical dinner and a movie outing. Sometimes it’s a good idea to think outside the box and think of a date that both of you would have fun doing together. Maybe you have shared interest or hobby. Planning a unique date night is sure to leave a lasting impression, plus you’ll both be having plenty of fun in the process!