When it comes to first dates, we all want to make a good impression. But let’s face it—first dates can be nerve-wracking. Your heart races, your palms sweat, and the pressure to keep the conversation flowing without awkward silences feels intense. One of the best ways to ease those nerves and ensure you have a great time is to go in prepared.
No, not by memorizing a script or creating a bullet-point list of talking points (that would be awkward). But by learning a few key things about the person you’re about to meet. This can set the tone for a fun and engaging date while helping you decide if this person is someone you want to get to know better.
Here are the seven things you should know before your first date to help you walk in confidently and come out feeling good about how things went.
A. His Current Relationship Status
This might seem obvious, but it’s one of the most important things to figure out before the date. Is he really single? You’d be surprised how many people go on dates without being clear about this. Maybe he’s just out of a relationship, or perhaps he’s casually seeing someone. Understanding his current status saves you from confusion later.
You don’t want to waste time investing in someone who’s emotionally unavailable or still dealing with ex-drama. So, a simple but essential question before the date can make a world of difference. It might feel awkward, but it’s necessary to know whether you’re both on the same page.
B. What He Does for a Living
You’re not being shallow. Asking what someone does for work isn’t about judging them; it’s about understanding their life. Our jobs take up a huge part of our time, so knowing his profession gives you a peek into his world. Plus, it helps you see if you have common ground.
Does he travel a lot? Work odd hours? Maybe he’s passionate about his career, or maybe he’s still figuring it out. Knowing this can guide the conversation in a natural direction. It gives you insights into his lifestyle, and it can help you see if your lives would mesh well.
C. How Busy He Is
Some people thrive on packed schedules, while others value their downtime. How busy someone is might tell you how much space they have for a relationship. It’s important to know if he’s constantly working, has lots of hobbies, or is focused on personal projects.
If he’s incredibly busy, he might not have much time for you. Or maybe his schedule complements yours perfectly. Understanding his availability prevents disappointment if you’re looking for different levels of time commitment.
D. What You Have in Common
Shared interests are the glue of any relationship. Before the first date, try to find out what you both like. Do you enjoy similar movies, books, or hobbies? Maybe you both love hiking or have a passion for travel. Having something in common makes the first date easier and gives you a natural flow of conversation.
While opposites can attract, it’s those shared experiences and interests that often build a strong foundation. Knowing what you both enjoy also gives you ideas for future dates. It’s a good sign if you’re already finding common ground.
E. What’s Totally Different
While common interests are important, differences add excitement. Don’t be afraid of discovering things that make you two different. Maybe he’s into sports while you love art. Or perhaps he’s an early riser, and you’re a night owl. These contrasts can be refreshing and offer opportunities to learn from each other.
Differences can also show you where potential challenges might lie. It’s good to know what’s different early on to see if it’s something you’re comfortable with or if it’s going to cause friction. Embrace the uniqueness but also understand how it could affect your dynamic.
F. His Short-Term Goals
Is he focused on advancing his career right now? Or maybe he’s saving up for a big trip. Short-term goals reveal where someone’s priorities lie. If his goals align with yours, that’s a great sign. If not, it might mean you’re on different paths.
It’s essential to know if his short-term goals include a relationship or if he’s primarily focused on personal growth for the time being. This knowledge helps you avoid heartache later, especially if you’re looking for something more serious.
G. Why You’re Saying Yes
Before you even step out the door, it’s worth asking yourself why you’re going on this date in the first place. Is it because you’re genuinely interested in getting to know him, or are you feeling pressure? Maybe it’s been a while since you’ve dated, and you want to get back out there. Or perhaps you’re just curious.
Knowing your “why” keeps you grounded. It prevents you from going into the date with expectations that might not match reality. Being clear about your intentions helps you stay in control of the experience.
Putting It All Together
A first date can be exciting, nerve-wracking, and filled with potential. But it’s also important to be prepared. Knowing these things beforehand sets you up for success. You’ll feel more confident, and the conversation will flow better when you have some insight into who he is and where he’s coming from.
You don’t need to turn the date into an interview, but asking these questions subtly before or during the conversation can make a huge difference. They’re key to understanding whether or not there’s potential for something more.
Trust your instincts, stay curious, and enjoy the experience. The first date is just the beginning, and with the right approach, it could lead to something truly amazing.
