Good Ideas For First Date

You've finally matched with someone on one of the many dating apps out there, and it's time to test your chemistry out in the real world. Now comes the part you may have dreaded: coming up with a first date idea. The good news is we've got you covered. A classic meet-up for drinks or coffee is totally fine. But if you really want to wow your date, and start your potential relationship off on a memorable foot, why not go for a more exciting activity? Bringing someone to an unexpected place could help break the ice, get rid of those first date jitters, and really get to know them.

First date anxiety can be difficult, particularly if you already live with anxiety in other areas of your life. Going on a date with someone new may bring up concerns about being judged and evaluated, as well as jitters about whether you will be able to keep up your end of the conversation or make a good impression. If you live with social anxiety disorder SAD and have managed to meet someone who you feel comfortable going on a date with, you've already taken a significant step toward overcoming your fears. However, planning a first date that maximizes your strengths and minimizes anxiety can be helpful. While dinner and a movie is the traditional first date choice, it's not the best option if you live with social anxiety. This type of date can be anxiety-provoking as it may focus on aspects that can trigger many of your fears such as making eye contact , keeping a conversation going, and eating in front of someone else.

But first dates require meeting up in public and having some sort of activity to do. Dinner, drinks or seeing a movie are all classic date scenarios, but they can also be expensive. Even a Starbucks rendez-vous can add up, once you throw in a panini and a muffin. Take a cue from Selena and The Weekend , and hit up a local animal shelter to love on some cute pups or kittens during your first date.

When I think back to the first date I had with my husband, what surprises me is how ordinary it was. We simply met at his house, and talked from our hearts for an entire rainy afternoon. If, that is, you could call that a date at all. Some might contest the term. However, some version of that conversation has been going on for 13 years now, and that first date ended up leading to the rest of my life.