By Macy Sliman
First off, women and men have overly high and equally low expectations of each other. So, don’t have expectations. Go into any dating situation with the aim for simply getting to know one another. There’s a lot less stress and pressure this way.
Being a lady: Above all, don’t stress. It’s just a date. It has the potential to be a lot of fun or not. If not, it’s not a big deal. Your life will go on. I promise.
Moving on. Best foot forward. Dress appropriately for the date. If it’s a ball game, wear the gear or the colors. According to some guys, an over dressed girl is a little intimidating. And let’s face it, a baseball game is not fun in full-on jewelry and heels.
Next, remember to put your phone on silent. Seriously, nothing is more annoying than a buzzing phone and someone not entirely present, which causes awkward silence.
On the opposite end of that, ladies, don’t hold the entire conversation. We girls are stereotyped as dominating the conversation. Ask questions and let him talk.
On the subject of talking, don’t’ talk about your future together. Stop. Don’t even think about it. If you are not seriously dating this guy, you will freak them out. And if they start talking about it, run away quickly.
Another big thing guys don’t like is when you don’t eat. I know you’re nervous, but when you don’t eat the meal this nice guy has spent money on, they will notice. They aren’t going to notice if you eat, but they will if you don’t.
Now, at the end of date, the guy will probably make a move to pay. Be extremely thankful. It is a privilege to have someone offer to pay, so make sure that your date knows you are grateful.
On to being a gentleman: Let’s start with doors. This is a super old school move that never gets a bad review. When you go to pick her up, go up to the door. It’s less awkward, and it’s much more polite.
As mentioned before, leave the phone on silent and don’t consult it at all. It needs to be in your pocket and not on the table. Be present and not in some other conversation.
Always be polite to everyone. She will notice if you are nice to her but not to the waiter, and it’s a turn off. Ask questions and try and get to know her. Put effort into focusing on her and try not to talk about yourself too much. You want her to feel important and like you’re interested in her.
If you need to walk across the street ,take her hand and when on a sidewalk, walk on the outside nearest the street. This shows that you are looking out for her safety while not being smothering.