The Top 10 Do's And Don'ts Of Dating /

There is no shortage of dating advice out there, telling you to either appear ‘enigmatic’, or ‘available' but not TOO available’. To be honest, most of it is rubbish. Trying to appear as something you’re not will just lead to disappointment in the long run. However, there are a few general do’s and don’ts about dating that apply to everyone. They don’t involve trying to be anyone but you, so don’t panic! But they will help you avoid some popular first date mistakes. Told from experience, we look at the top 10 do's and don’ts of dating.

Do's /

DO recommend a venue you are familiar with. You’ll feel more comfortable, you’ll know your way around and it will give you more confidence. It also helps break the ice, as you can recommend certain dishes and wines.

DO choose an outfit you feel comfortable in. You may want to wear that extra special tiny black number that you’ve never worn before, but chances are, you’ll get out and wish you had worn something else. Yes, make an effort but also make sure that you wear an outfit that you know makes you feel confident and reflects your personality.

DO show your interest. Don’t be afraid to engage in some mild flirting over dinner – just make sure you don’t go over board! Maintain eye contact, keep your body language open, find out what you share in common – listening is more important than talking in this case.

DO be positive. Yes, you might hate your job or have just had an argument with your flat mate, but no one wants to hear about that on a first date.

DO relax. Remember that this is supposed to be fun! Taking dating too seriously can result in over-analyzing every situation, which gives off a bad vibe. Try to enjoy yourself, don’t put too much pressure on your date and you’ll have a blast.

Don'ts /

DON’T talk about past lovers or relationships. ‘My ex-boyfriend used to support Arsenal too’ is possibly the worst thing you can say on any date, let alone the first. Keep the past where it belongs.

DON’T over share on the first date. It might be tempting to run away with yourself and describe in detail every aspect of your life, but remember you are there to find out about them as well. Leave some mystery for the next date!

DON’T drink too much. Yes, a glass of wine will calm the nerves but three or four will probably end up in you embarrassing either your date or yourself. You’ll potentially end up doing something you regret or behaving in a way you wouldn’t usually, and so best to steer clear. Which brings me tidily to my next point…

DON’T get intimate too quickly. This is the oldest tip in the book, and it’s as true today as it has ever been. There is no rush. You have plenty of time to get to know each other better. Taking someone home on the first date is trashy – not exactly the ideal impression you want to give your date.

And finally, DON’T pretend to be someone else. Exaggerating your education, hobbies, background or lifestyle so that they match his better is not a good idea. He will eventually find out and that’s just an awkward situation all round.