So, you’ve finally set a date — you’ve agreed to finally meet each other in person after talking for quite some time online. You’re feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness, and that’s pretty normal. After all, you’re still meeting a stranger.
It’s exciting as you’ll finally be able to put a face to the name and see the other person in the flesh. But of course, it can be scary, too. What if they turn out to be completely different from how you’ve imagined them to be or how they portray themselves online.
Whatever you might be feeling prior to that “big day?” they’re all valid. But you can still make the right amount of preparations to make everything right — or at least the things you can control. Going on a first date with someone you met online can be a truly fun experience.
This will also help you determine if you do have a connection, and it’s still a good idea to continue your relationship. Here are some ideas you can refer to make sure your first date is a successful one:
1. Make sure you’re really ready.
Your first concern should be, “Am I really emotionally prepared to meet that other person in real life?” Keep this mind: once you’ve finally agreed to interact outside of your laptops or mobile phones means you’re officially allowing each other to be part of your own lives.
They may still be the same person you met and built a connection with online, but it can be entirely different once they’ve come out of your small online social circle.
2. Come up with activities that you’ll both enjoy.
This is your first official meeting, so make it as fun as possible for both of you. Here’s how: In your many conversations and exchanges online, we’re pretty sure you’ve tackled several things about your interests, favorite food, and hobbies, among others.
Use all the information you’ve gathered and looked for the best place and the most suitable activities that will not only be fun for you but for your date as well. Whether it’s in a bar restaurant in Spring Hills, KS, a bowling alley, a skating rink, museums or galleries, make sure it’s somewhere that you’ll both be comfortable. Doing fun activities together will also lessen any awkward moments.
3. Arrive on time.
Be punctual and respect the other person’s schedule. Never, ever show up late. Remember, the other person also spared a fraction of their time to meet you, so be respectful of that. Showing up late will also not leave a good first impression.
The other person may see it as a sign that you’re not being sincere about making the relationship work in real life. Do everything you can to be on time and look ready, prepared, and serious.
4. Make your date feel comfortable around you.
This should be your main priority, especially if you’re a guy meeting a girl. This is also true if the other person is the extroverted type. Make sure you’ve consulted the other person about where you’re meeting, and be open to making compromises as long as it’s something you both agree with. Go somewhere you’re both familiar with to avoid making the first date too overwhelming.
Keep all these things in mind and have a fun-filled first date. Good luck!