Being a single fellow over here, following a very lengthy relationship that spanned just over the edge of twelve years and that had some ups and downs, but was for the most part grand, I find myself on the dating scene again. Oddly enough, this has been a learning lesson for me as I go on date after date with stranger after stranger. I have heard about—and have been subject to—some dates from hell. This led me to be intrigued to look up some classic don’ts that you should always stray far, far away from when on any date. For me, I commonly see these ‘don’ts’ exhibited on many dates that I go on, and am immediately turned off by them.
So for any of you likeminded daters who are out there who are looking for love, perhaps these candid tips will help you avoid the conundrum of being caught in that proverbial dating twist. You know, where you say and do things that you later regret that make or break that date. Usually, I see it from the other side. But rest assured, I myself am guilty of these as well. But I am getting more refined with each passing day; or so I fondly tell myself to stroke my own ego. Without ado, avoid these four don’ts when on a date, and at all costs!
- Never talk about your ex. I cannot emphasize this enough. This is such a bad thing to do. One, you are on a date to meet them and learn more about them, not rehash negative and bad experiences you have had with love. That is a major turn-off and a big time no-no!
- Avoid discussing politics or religion. There is this old time rule about being at a bar: You never talk about either of these subjects because they open the doors to much debate. In par with that notion is when you are on a date. Rather, focus on the person, their likes and dislikes, and who they really are. The other stuff can come later, if you enter into a relationship with them.
- Chivalry is not dead. Guys, I know that it is not the 50s anymore, but have some class. Open the doors, get the drinks, and be attentive and focused on the girl. Always offer to pay the full bill, even if they argue otherwise. Girls have it easier than we men when on dates, that’s for sure. But playing your cards right is always smart.
- Open your ears, not your mouth, and mind your manners. Most commonly I hear the women I know fret over men never listening to them. So this one is a no-brainer: Listen up. Then talk. Also, be mindful of your manners and the way that you present yourself; don’t talk with a mouth full of food or ask your date if they want to go heads-to-toe with a burping contest!
