Let's talk about dates. I went on two first dates a few weekends back — yes, two. I went on a first date with a guy that I matched with on Tinder, and then the next day I went on another first date with a different guy that I matched with from Bumble. I had no previous obligation to either of these gentlemen, so I felt like it was okay to go on two different dates.

The night before my date with Tinder-man, I was up until six in the morning because I was looking up "what to do on a first date." Keep in mind that I haven't gone on a date in two years, so this was a big deal for me. That day, I FaceTimed with my best friend and she gave me advice that I couldn't get from an article. Luckily for you, I'm putting that advice into this article, along with the knowledge that I gained on my two dates.

1. First dates are just hangouts with people you don't know yet

OK, maybe you're going on a date with someone you know as a friend, but you still don't know them as a S/O. Go with the mindset that you and this person are just hanging out and getting to know each other, and if they don't like you that way or you don't like them, that's totally fine.

2. You're an amazing person

Whether you're newly single or haven't had a serious relationship ever, you're wonderful. Dating status doesn't change who you are, and as long you're being your best self and living a happy life, that's all that matters.

3. You are worthy of love

A lot of times, people feel very insecure after ending a relationship. That's normal, but don't ever feel like you are less worthy of love and happiness than anyone else — unless you're a murderer.

4. Be yourself

Yeah, this is really simple, but let me explain why it's so important. People can sense genuineness; people who are true to themselves have a certain thing about them where they're obviously not faking something. They are comfortable living their life, and that shows.

These were all wonderful things that my best friend taught me before I went on my date, and I'm so happy to share them. Most dating advice articles I read at 4 am just had things like "be a nice person, have basic manners, and talk about normal things but also be interesting," which are all very important but also very basic things. Going on dates can be extremely nerve-racking, and it's easy to lose sight of why you're going on a date in the first place: to enjoy each other's company!

Also for those wondering; my date from Tinder was really fun and we actually went on a second date this past weekend, but my date from Bumble was kind of boring and I haven't spoken to him since.