10 Things to NEVER do on a First Date

First dates can be exciting, nerve-wracking, and full of potential. It's your chance to make a great first impression and set the tone for a possible relationship. However, certain behaviors can quickly turn a promising date into an awkward experience. Here are 10 things you should never do on a first date to ensure you leave a lasting, positive impression.

1. Don't Talk About Your Ex

Bringing up your ex is one of the biggest first date mistakes you can make. Your date might think you're still carrying emotional baggage from your past relationship. Instead, keep the focus on the present and enjoy getting to know your new companion.

2. Avoid Being Late

Being late to a first date shows disrespect for your date's time and can start things off on the wrong foot. Punctuality demonstrates that you value the other person and are serious about making a good impression.

If you're running late, make sure to let your date know as soon as possible, so they're not left waiting and wondering what happened.

3. Don't Overshare Personal Details

While it's good to open up and be authentic, dumping too much personal information on a first date can be overwhelming. Keep things light and gradually share more intimate details as your relationship develops.

• Save deep trauma for later conversations
• Avoid financial troubles as a first date topic
• Keep family drama to a minimum
• Don't share intimate health details too early

4. Don't Use Your Phone Excessively

Constantly checking your phone during a date is a sure way to reduce your chances of a second one. It sends the message that your date isn't interesting enough to hold your attention.

Put your phone away and stay focused on your date. Give them your full attention—it's one of the most attractive qualities you can display.

Put the phone away and focus on creating a real connection

5. Avoid Talking About Controversial Topics

Discussing politics, religion, or other controversial subjects on a first date can quickly turn a pleasant evening into an uncomfortable debate. Keep the conversation light and engaging, focusing on topics that help you get to know each other better.

Save the heavy discussions for when you've established a stronger foundation of trust and understanding.

6. Don't Drink Too Much

Having a drink or two is fine and can help ease first-date nerves, but overdoing it can lead to embarrassing situations and poor decision-making. You want to be present, articulate, and in control of your actions.

Keep it moderate so you can stay cool, collected, and make genuine connections with your date.

7. Don't Be Negative

Negativity is a major turn-off on first dates. Constantly complaining about your job, your life, or other people can make your date want to end the evening early.

8. Don't Interrupt or Dominate the Conversation

If you're constantly talking over your date or monopolizing the conversation, you're missing out on getting to know them. Great conversations require give and take—just like a well-choreographed dance.

Listen actively, ask thoughtful questions, and show genuine interest in what your date has to say. This demonstrates emotional intelligence and respect.

"The best conversationalists are actually the best listeners. They make others feel heard and valued."

Dale Carnegie, How to Win Friends and Influence People

9. Avoid Being Rude to Service Staff

How you treat service staff—waiters, bartenders, hosts—reveals your true character. Being rude or dismissive to service workers is a major red flag and can instantly turn off your date.

Always be kind, patient, and respectful to everyone. This shows that you're a genuinely good person, not just someone who can put on a show when it suits you.

10. Don't Rush Into Physical Intimacy

Jumping into physical intimacy too quickly can make your date uncomfortable and send the wrong message about your intentions. Respect personal boundaries and take time to build emotional connection first.

Let the relationship develop naturally. Physical intimacy is much more meaningful when it grows from genuine emotional connection and mutual respect.

• Read body language and respect non-verbal cues
• Ask for consent before any physical contact
• Focus on emotional connection first
• Let things progress naturally over multiple dates

Conclusion

First dates are like delicate introductions—you want everything to go smoothly so you can both decide if there's potential for something more. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you'll ensure your date is as enjoyable and memorable as possible.

Remember, the key to a great first date is to be respectful, present, and genuinely interested in the other person. Be authentic, stay positive, and focus on creating a comfortable environment where both of you can be yourselves.

Follow these guidelines, and you might just find yourself planning that exciting second date!