Why You Need A First Date Exit Strategy

Red Alert!

You know the date is a dud almost as soon as he opens his mouth.

So, there you are looking stunning with a coveted table at the hottest eatery in town.

But after 25 minutes of hearing your date drone on about how his ex ate his soul, you wish you were home.

In your sweats. Watching tv. 

With a pound of chocolate.

Like most of us, you make a common fist date mistake:  not having an exit strategy!

Just as airplanes have an exit strategy in the event something goes horribly wrong, you need to have a plan should things go awry during a first date.

Think about it, most of  us know within the first 10-15 minutes into a date if we have a connection, and want to see that person again.

Yet why do we still continue to set up first dates in environments where either:

• we don't give ourselves the opportunity to  engage in conversation to find out more about the person

• we trap ourselves in expensive restaurants where we often feel obligated to continue the evening from hell due to a misguided sense of obligation - since the meal costs more than our car.

Creating an exit strategy helps relieve some of the enormous anxiety and awkwardness  which comes when a date doesn't work out.

The Dos And The Don'ts

So, in order to create you own dating exit strategy, here are some great guidelines to follow:

1. Avoid situations which don't give you a chance to talk.  Nix going to sporting events, concerts or the movies on a very first date. While these events can be fun, they don't give you the chance to break the ice and talk.
2. Skip the fancy restaurants.  99.5% of people arrange a first date at an expensive restaurant. However, realizing you two aren't hitting it off can mean sitting through an uncomfortable meal. Not a fun evening.
3. Meet for drinks or coffee. Arranging to meet for coffee or drinks is a fantastic way to begin a first date.  The setting is often very informal, which helps break the ice, and is more conducive to conversation.  In the event you two don't connect, it's easier to part ways with the expense of just a few drinks between you.
4. Be safe! If your date is someone you don't really know, never arrange for them to pick you up where you live. In fact, it's often wiser to meet each other at your destination separately.  So if the evening goes south, you are free to leave anytime you choose. Plus, you won't have the concern that this person knows where you live.  Important note:  always let a friend know where you will be - just in case.

Finally

Remember, going on a first date is very exciting! With that said, it is just wise to have an exit strategy in place when things do not go as planned. 

Equipping yourself so helps relieve much of the anxiety and awkwardness which comes with the territory.

So plan carefully, have fun and stay safe!

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Planning That First Date? Here Are Some Fun (& Cheap) Ideas!

 

Making plans for a first date can be a nerve wracking experience, especially if you are on a budget.  Don't worry! With a little thought and creativity, you can plan a fun, memorable (and inexpensive) date.

The following are some great date ideas that are not only fun, but will also serve to break the ice - and not the bank!

1. Attend a local festival.   Most local communities have one. The price of admission is often free or very inexpensive.  Additionally, these festivals have many  fun and entertaining activities for attendees to enjoy.
2. Go for a scenic drive.  Plan a drive with just the two of you along a scenic route. What's great about this idea is that it can be vey romantic no matter what the season, or where you live. For example,  view the different colors of leaves during the Fall. Drive along a costal highway. See Christmas lights at night. You get the idea!
3. Plan a picnic.  It may seem cliche', but this idea is timeless.  Pack a small lunch or wine, crackers and cheese. Then, you both pick out a perfect spot and enjoy.
4. Play Laser Tag!  If your date is up for it, then a game of laser tag can be just the ticket!  Most laser tag franchises offer memberships which include great discounts on game sessions. Plus, unlike paint-ball, there are no physical projectiles that can ruin clothes or cause any pain. For more information on laser tag franchises in the U.S. and Canada visit:  Wheretoplaylasertag.org
5. Volunteer This idea is one of my favorites.  Volunteering with your date for a cause you both feel strongly about is a great way to build rapport, plus make a difference.  From story book reading to kids, to providing meals on wheels, there are so many different opportunities available. Attending a charity event also falls into this category. For information on volunteer opportunities in your area, visit:  volunteermatch.org.
6. Take a class.  Another great idea is to take a class together.  Many institutions offer single cooking, dance, photography, etc. classes that would be great for a first date. Check with libraries or universities in your area for more information.

Hopefully you are starting to realize that there are many, great date ideas out there that won't cost you a small fortune. Again, just use a little creativity and remember to have fun!

If you have other great first date suggestions, please leave a comment and share them with us!

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