First dates can either ruin your chances with someone, or set the stage for a truly special relationship. Here are a few tips to make sure that things go smoothly:

1. Be yourself. This is the most important thing to remember on a first date. There is no point trying to be someone that you’re not; you won’t enjoy it, and even if it seems to work, it will only cause you more trouble down the road.  A first date is a chance to get to know the other person, and for the other person to get to know you. If you both pretend to be someone that you’re not, it isn’t going to help either of you.

2. Look your best. We all know that there are more important things that looks in a relationship, but dressing up isn’t just about trying to look physically attractive. When you dress up, you are actually paying a respectful compliment to your date: you are saying “This date is exciting for me, and I want to make it special!”. That’s a wonderful thing to say to someone, and it’s a great way to start a date!

3. Listen. It’s natural to want to talk a lot on a first date. You want them too see how funny and clever and charming you are, and that you are a wonderful and caring person. That’s fine, but you also have to make sure that your date gets a chance too! When you listen to what they have to say, it shows that you are interested in who they are, and what makes them tick.

4. Forget expectations. Maybe you are really hoping for a good night kiss (or more)? Perhaps you want this person to be your new girlfriend or boyfriend? Maybe you can already hear wedding bells ringing merrily? No matter what you are hoping for, it’s better not to expect anything on the first date. Just see what happens. If you set too many expectations, a date can start to feel like a challenge; like you somehow have to accomplish all these things, otherwise you have wasted your time. Don’t let a date become a chore. Just focus on having fun and getting to know the other person . . . there will be plenty of time for wedding bells later.

5. Enjoy yourself! Dates are fun! Don’t let it feel like you are under a lot of pressure to make a good impression. You are going out with a nice person, to have a good time and to get to know each other a little bit better. That’s great! Enjoy the experience! Smile a lot! Laugh a lot! Dating is wonderful and exciting, and you deserve to be happy!