{"id":2140,"date":"2016-12-06T08:04:54","date_gmt":"2016-12-06T08:04:54","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.lastingconnections.net\/?p=2140"},"modified":"2016-12-06T08:04:54","modified_gmt":"2016-12-06T08:04:54","slug":"first-date-questions-answers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sameerasullivan.com\/first-date-questions-answers\/","title":{"rendered":"First Date Questions And Answers"},"content":{"rendered":"
Let\u2019s talk a little more in depth about that all-important first date<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n My clients often ask me for help and guidance on everything from what to wear to who should pay. \u00a0And because it\u2019s something that can cause even the most seasoned of singles to get anxious or nervous about, I\u2019ve decided it\u2019s best to compile the most frequently asked questions, along with my answers.<\/span><\/p>\n After all, first impressions are everything. \u00a0And if you happen to meet \u201cthe one\u201d, you want to make sure they call you back for a second night out. \u00a0Good luck!<\/span><\/p>\n Question: During Introductions\u2026Handshake, Hug, or Nothing?<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n Do whatever you are most comfortable with. \u00a0If you\u2019re a hugger, then offer a hug. \u00a0If you\u2019re a hand shaker, extend the hand. \u00a0It\u2019s okay to not be quite sure what to do, just don\u2019t pretend to be something you\u2019re not. \u00a0Always remember that on the first date, you\u2019re showing and telling the other person who you are (and hopefully they\u2019re returning the favor). \u00a0You don\u2019t have to be perfect\u2026just sincere and genuine. \u00a0And if in the end it turns out you love to give hugs and they don\u2019t even want to clink glasses over dinner, then maybe that\u2019s a sign this isn\u2019t the right person for you.<\/span><\/p>\n Question: Which topics should be considered taboo or off limits?<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n A first date is a time to establish a genuine, positive connection. \u00a0Steer clear of the heavier subjects, and if they come up, only skim the surface before moving on. \u00a0Don\u2019t get too heavy into politics, religion, or other polarizing subjects; verbal sparring can be fun, but I recommend saving the debates for after you\u2019ve established a positive connection. \u00a0Until you know a person more intimately, it can be confusing and even a little intimidating to have heated discussions, as you don\u2019t yet know the other person well enough to recognize the difference between when they\u2019re arguing, debating, or just plain angry.<\/span><\/p>\n And never, ever go in depth about past relationships on a first date. \u00a0Doing this can leave many impressions\u2026and none of them are positive. \u00a0It can lead your date to believe you\u2019re still emotionally tied to your ex. \u00a0It can stir up jealousy or insecurity. \u00a0And most important of all\u2026a first date is a chance for a fresh start; but by discussing an ex, you risk ruining a blank slate with all the red marks from your old ledger.<\/span><\/p>\n Question: What is a good venue for a first date?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n While people often try to come up with things that are considered \u2018fun\u2019 or \u2018different\u2019 for a first date, we actually recommend an old fashioned approach. \u00a0The idea of zip lining over the Grand Canyon sounds fun, but it doesn\u2019t really give you the chance to get to know your date.<\/span><\/p>\n Nothing beats a nice wine bar, or a lunch or dinner date. Pick a place with \u00a0pleasant ambiance. \u00a0Not too crowded, and not too loud. \u00a0You want an atmosphere that encourages intimate conversation, where you have the chance to relax and be yourself. \u00a0A first date should never involve inviting your date to your home for dinner, or anywhere else for that matter that has the two of you completely alone for extended periods of time; this opens the door wide for misunderstandings, missed signals, and misfires. Inviting a date for dinner on a 2nd date in your home can also be a disaster. Stay away from that idea until after the 5th date! <\/span><\/p>\n Remember\u2026the first date is the chance to see if there is a connection<\/em>. \u00a0The fewer distractions, the better.<\/span><\/p>\n Question: What Should I Wear?<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n The wardrobe question is probably the most common question I\u2019m asked when it comes to first dates. \u00a0Every person is different, but there are a few basic rules that apply no matter who you are or where you\u2019re going:<\/span><\/p>\n\n