how to save time and money...and have more of a laugh.. by following a couple of first date rules

 photo credit: london's online dating photographer, saturday night's alright

Want to save time and money and avoid unnecessary heartache?  Read on......

Going on lots of first dates can be time consuming and, particularly if you're a guy, expensive.  They can also be painful, nerve wracking and generally embarrassing if left to chance.  I have pulled together a couple of simple guidelines for you which will make first dates a lot less painful and they will also save you time and money.   You see how I look out for you.

1. Get mentally prepared

There are four possible outcomes for every first date and only one of these is that you will both like each other (ahh the holy grail of dating).  The other three outcomes involve rejection of some kind, either yours, theirs or even both of you at once.  Once you get your head round this, you can head off to the date knowing you're fighting against the odds so if it doesn't pan out the way you wanted, it's no big deal, in fact it's the most likely outcome.

2. Meet for a quick post-work drink 

Ok, so why risk going to dinner with someone you've never met before, who may have lied on their profile and used a photo from 15 years ago?  Do you really want to spend a couple of hours with them over dinner when you knew the second you walked in that you never wanted to see them again?

Save time, money and ultimately your sanity and use first dates as a quick, easy and cheap way to get the measure of a potential partner.  A quick drink will give you enough time to figure out if you want to see them again and that is all your really need from a first date.  Say you only have an hour to meet.  The way they treat you after the date (how long they wait to text etc) will also give you lots of information about who they are, which can help you decide if they are worth seeing again.

Save the cool date ideas for second or third dates, when you know they are worth impressing.

3. Keep things positive and light hearted 

Ok, let's assume they haven't lied about their profile (hurrah) and you're enjoying yourself over your glass of wine/beer.  Keep the conversation casual and lighthearted.  Avoid talking about hospital appointments, illnesses, open wounds (you'd be surprised), ex partners, marriage, babies etc.  Come across as positive, open, relaxed and a good laugh.  Then after an hour, head off leaving them wanting more.  Keep it casual, if they are stalling about meeting again, no point hassling them about it.  They know where you are if they want to see you again. 

I hope you found this helpful?  I'd love to hear from you.