Online Dating Sites - Lovesites

Written by Jennifer Privette

Sweaty palms (ok not just palms), a rumbling tummy, incessant talking or being completely tongue tied…Why is it that our nerves manifest in the most unattractive manner when we’re on a date, especially that all important first date? The time when we’re trying to be your most attractive appealing self. For some reason when humans get nervous, especially sexually, our bodies seem to go berserk. Maybe it’s a national geographic thing, but it definitely doesn’t help the situation. We end up in a nervous frenzy, and become self-obsessed with managing the situation that we just make it worse. Thoughts like, “Why did I just say that?” are not uncommon. So how do we combat first date jitters, and therefore eliminate or reduce their icky effects, besides a little antiperspirant and some tums? Well here are timeless tips to get you through that all important first date:

Don’t have expectations.

This is not to say not to have standards, but having too many expectations whether high or low can get us into trouble, and obsessing about them can make us nervous. You don’t want go into a first date having already picked out your wedding colors or expecting this person to be the one to fulfill all your wants, desires and dreams, that my friend will get you into trouble and make you nervous. On the other hand, don’t fuss and worry that your date is doomed before you’ve even gone on it. Relax, this is about getting to know someone, and remember that that is a process. Keep your standards and let your expectations mature if the relationship does.

Be yourself.
Yes, it’s so cliched your grandma has probably stitched it on a pillow, but it’s true! If the person agreed to go out with you or asked you out, it’s because they saw something about you that they were interested in. Plus there’s perks to being yourself; first of all, not being yourself is a lot of work, who needs that, and second of all it expedites the dating process. If both people are being genuine, then they’re bound to find out quicker, then if they weren’t themselves, whether or not they want to continue dating.

Don’t obsess!
Quite possibly the worst thing you can do for your nerves and your mental well-being is to obsess about things. This ties into both points above, if you can master your mind and relax, then you’re going to do just fine. If you feel yourself obsessing about (insert the million possibilities here), stop yourself and be confident in who you are. Remember, dating is supposed to be fun!