So your friend wants to set you up on a date with this guy from work who she swears is just perfect for you. It’s time for-- ta-da!-- the blind date and all of the awkwardness and excitement that comes with the territory. But how to navigate the treacherous waters of dating a stranger? Follow these guidelines, and you’ll be good to go:
Only agree to go on blind dates set up by friends whose advice you trust. Your friend Michelle may claim that she has found your night in shining armor, but remember that time she swore to you that your eyelashes would grow back thicker if you trimmed them with cuticle scissors? Everyone deserves a second chance, but if your friend has a long history of bad advice, think twice before you agree to go out on a date with someone she has hand-picked to be your mate.
Meet in a public place. Even if you do trust your matchmaker friend, you’re still going on a date with a stranger and should act accordingly. Well, there’s probably no need to pack the pepper spray, but at least meet up in a public place like a coffee shop, restaurant, or popular bar as opposed to your personal residence. Not only is it safer, but if things are going poorly it will be that much easier to escape without being rude ("Gosh, it’s getting late and I have to change before heading out again. It was great to meet you!")
Make an effort. Odds are that this person is not actually going to be Mr. Right, but if you go into the date with that kind of attitude your setting yourself up for a miserable evening. Instead, put on a smile and vow to make the best of the situation, even if it takes exactly 30 seconds to realize that you are out to dinner with the world’s biggest loser. You never know-- maybe this guy has a really cute roommate! Smile, be courteous, and try to make a friend, if not a love connection.
Keep your eyes wide open. Now is the time to search for red flags as well as indications that he may actually be a winner. Don’t give him the inquisition, but do listen carefully to the way he behaves and responds to your questions. Does he talk only about himself? You could chalk that up to first-date jitters, but it’s unlikely that he suddenly turn into a shoulder to cry on during your next date. Does he seem genuinely interested in who you are as a person? It could be a facade, but it could also be a sign of even better things to come.
Have a good sense of humor about the whole thing. If nothing else, this will be a great story to tell your friends on Monday. Don’t take things too seriously.
