1. When picking the date
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First off, to have a first date you need one so who's it gonna be? The cute boy from Spanish class, the boy next door, or your intramural basketball teammate?
When you get asked on a date, make sure they truly seem interested in what you are. You do not want to go into a date with someone who you just know that doesn't want what you do. At the same time, if you truly feel it then go with your gut, just be careful.
A first date is an important one as it will help set the tone for the rest of your relationship.
2. When picking the time
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Trust me, we all get busy! College is a stressful time in our lives, so dates should not stress you out even more. They should be all about getting to know the person and having a good time together.
With this in mind, pick a time when you are both free. Do not shove the date in between classes or after work. Weekends are your best friend here since you both most likely have enough time to hang out with each other.
3. When picking out an outfit
Maybe not the best look for a hike?
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Sticking to casual clothes is always the best option here.
Girls, go with a top that makes you feel good and is comfortable with some nice jeans or a skirt. You for sure do not need to wear heels here since they are not the comfiest option in your closet. By the end of the day, you'll be thanking me when you're feet are not killing you.
Boys, go with a button-up or maybe a nice flannel with some nice jeans or khaki. But all in all, everyone should stick to what makes you feel good and that you are comfortable in. If not, it will cause you undue stress.
Making a good impression on your date is important, and you want your date to find you attractive, but you also want them to see the real you, not the fake you.
4. Getting ready for the date
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Are you still worried? No worries, it's normal to be a little nervous a few days before or the day of your date.
First off, breathe in and out, take lots of deep breaths. Once you have done that, do something you love that helps you center yourself. Whether it be yoga, reading a book, or talking to your best friend, just try to calm yourself down and get excited. Play some of your favorite music while you get ready and put yourself in the best mood possible so you can thoroughly enjoy your date.
5. Do not compare this date to the last one
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Yes, there are bad dates and good dates. However, just because you have had one bad experience does not mean this time will be the same. Have an open mind about it and go in excited to get to know this new person. Who knows, this could your 'person' or they could turn out to be a new best friend. Either way, you're gaining something.
Even if the date doesn't work out, you've learned something new about yourself. Think to yourself, "Why did it go wrong?". Then next time, you can know what to do differently or maybe he or she just wasn't your type. No matter what happens, just know you deserve the best and do not let one date discourage you.
6. Have respect for your date
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No matter how the date goes, you need to be respectful throughout the entire thing and after. During the date, some hard topics may come up, such as politics or religion, but you have to remain civilized and appreciate that the other person is opening enough to tell you about them.
If your date doesn't kiss on the first date, give them a polite hug and keep talking. We are all different and we all deserve respect, even if you do not agree with what they are saying or believe. That respect extends after the date. Do not make your date wait days or weeks to hear back from you. If you do not want to see them again, be honest. It may make them upset, but it is the least hurtful to both parties in the end and allows each to move on.
First dates should be fun and you should just enjoy yourself. No one is saying you have to marry this person, so do not freak out. You got this and you deserve to be happy!