Let's be real- first dates can be nerve-wracking as you are excited and nervous at the same time. There is so much buzz and excitement surrounding the idea of getting to know a person and forming an intimate relationship with them. The anxiety and tension are completely normal and faced by many. However, they are easy to deal with, as there are many ways to do so.
- Make sure you have a relaxing day before and after your date.
Firstly, make sure to not plan the date on any day with any nerve-wracking events surrounding them. Don't plan the date on a day when you have a big presentation or job interview. The nervousness can stick with you and affect your performance all day, and if you are already tense, then there is a chance your date can sense it. Contemplating the outcome of such events will lead to you constantly thinking about them and getting worried.
- Do deep-breathing exercises or anything relaxing to calm yourself down.
Secondly, shake out the jitters and do a few breathing exercises before heading into your date. Deep breathing exercises help in the relaxation of the brain and bring comfort to the brain. Once you feel relaxed and comfortable, it will be easier to overcome the waves of anxiety that you may be experiencing before your date. Indulging in activities that stimulate calm and peace, such as yoga or a bath, is also a major help.
- Challenge the negative thoughts inducing your anxiety.
Anxiety is your brain telling you that there are problems present even when they are not. These negative thoughts stem from minor things and make them look major. It is important to target the root of these thoughts and remind yourself of their insignificance. It is important to pin these thoughts down one by one and tackle them to protect yourself against them.
- Prepare yourself in advance for awkward episodes.
Come up with a list of topics or questions to discuss when you do not understand a specific conversation starter to opt. Anxiety can cause a person to lose their conversational skills and go into an awkward silence situation as they may forget what to say or panic and say the wrong thing. Being prepared with a list in advance may help overcome these spells of silence and keep the conversation going.
- Keep a note to be optimistic and present.
Anxiety results from focusing on the negative and hyper-fixation on that, so to counter that, it is imperative to focus on the positive things happening around you. It is important to stay in the present and not get lost in your thoughts, so keep focusing on things you can see, hear, taste, touch, and smell around you. This activity will help you stay in touch with your senses and keep you present. And to stay positive, notice every time your date smiles or gives you a positive response. These things may seem insignificant, but they are of great help for overcoming first-date anxiety.