When you head out on a first date with someone there are a lot of things that could go wrong. Most people aren’t immediately comfortable with someone they don’t know yet and anticipate some awkward moments. Well, the anxiety and stress of the whole occasion could sabotage you in a lot of ways. The best way to ensure a great first date is to be conscious and aware of some bad habits. Here are the top 10!

1. Don’t go over the top in wardrobe and makeup!

Ladies, I know how it is. We get excited that someone tall, dark and handsome wants to spend time with us and all of a sudden out closets explode into our rooms as we try on everything we own in search of the perfect ensemble. It’s pretty standard. The problem is when you overdo it. The secret behind this is you’re not on the hunt for something glamorous. You’re looking for something simple, but totally classy and charming. This goes for makeup as well. Keep it minimal. You want your new beau to think you’re beautiful, not your makeup!

2. Don’t turn it into an interrogation!

I’m an inquisitive spirit so I’m sure I’ve done this one too many times, but it’s really important to pace yourself. You do not need to know every detail about this man’s life. Save the questions about his favorite colors and where he sees himself in five years for future dates. Just relax and let conversation flow rather than dominating all of the chatter.

3. Don’t be a mute!

The same way it isn’t attractive to dominate a conversation, it’s not comfortable or interesting to leave your date talking to himself. Try not to respond to questions with one word. Elaborate a little and let him get to know you!

4. Leave your cellphone in your purse!

There is absolutely no reason you need to be checking your phone every time the conversation hits a lull. It’s rude, inconsiderate and makes it seem like you’re bored. Pay your date the same respect that you hope for.

5. Don’t let your nerves get the best of you!

Sometimes we let our nerves and anxiety hit us so hard that it ends up being a distraction. There’s no reason to analyze and over-analyze the details of the date while you’re on it or flip out about whether or not your makeup and hair is still perfect. Relax and enjoy yourself. If something isn’t perfect that usually makes the date even better because you learn how to improvise, relax and most importantly…LAUGH!

6. Try not to be an super-picky eater!

I’m 100 percent guilty of this one, as I’m sure many people involved in fitness are. Try not to ask for caloric breakdowns of everything on the menu or turn your nose up if they order something you’re not a fan of. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, that’s totally fine. Just don’t make yourself a burden. Also, be open to trying something new. Maybe you’ve never had seafood before and your date orders something fishy that he swears is delicious. Try to be open-minded if he invites you to taste a bite. He’ll appreciate your adventurous side whether you like the food or not!

7. Don’t be too touchy!

You never want to be too physical too fast. It’s a great way to totally freak someone out and send them running for the hills! The best way to regulate physical contact on a first date is to focus on chivalry. Guys, offering a girl your hand to help her out of the car or something along those lines is encouraged, but as far as the more intimate stuff goes; you might want to save it for date 2 or 3!

8. Don’t focus all the attention on yourself!

You may be an incredibly interesting person, but I can assure you that your date will not want to spend the entire evening talking about you and listening to you talk about yourself. Ask some questions and make the chatter mutually involved!

Photo Source: Ambro, FreeDigitalPhotos.net