A picture is worth a thousand words. So, besides just talking, think of taking along things to show your date, to illustrate what you're up to, or something interesting that you're into. For example: a newspaper article about you or whatever you're interested in, an award you won, a gift you got from your mother, a photo of your latest vacation. ....

In this day and age, decisions about who pays for what have become more complicated than in previous dating ages, when the rules were clearer. Up until '70s, the man usually paid for everything. As more women went to work and the women's liberation movement demended equality, it became more common for couples to "go Dutch," where the man...

Define the amount of time of the date beforehand because you don't know how the first date will turn out or how much you will like each other. That means you should say ahead of time what time you want to be home, so it doesn't cause any anxiety during the date. Doing so gives you an easy out if you are not having a good time, without either of...

Grooming Looking your best is not just a matter of the clothes you wear, but also how you take care of your entire body and appearance. Looking your best is important not only for the impression you make, but for feeling good about yourself as well. Cleanliness It might seem insulting to even mention, but it deserves a respectful...

Okay, you cleared the first big hurdle. The first date is over. You can breathe easier now. So how did it go? Do you think you've met the person of your dreams, or someone you'd rather just keep as a friend, or, worse, a dud or a jerk you never want to see again? No matter how a date goes, I'm a big believer in grace after dates. That is, after...

Keep in mind these tips to help avoid disastrous dates: * DON'T put yourself in uncomfortable situations (such as ordering messy food -- unless you're into an erotic feeding scene, like from the movie 9 1/2 Weeks). * DON'T suggest overly expensive places or events for a first date unless you clarify who's paying. * DON'T look at other...

The art of conversation involves having the confidence to speak freely about whatever comes to your mind (without self-consciousness or second-guessing yourself), but also in a manner that engages the other person to be interested in what you are saying and feel like you are interested in them as well. Your conversation can cover many types of.....

If your mind instantly fills with images of tripping over your own feet, getting spaghetti sauce on your shirt, or, worse, feeling stupid about not knowing what to say, relax. A first date is bound to be fraught with some anxieties. Here are some ways to calm yourself down while psyching yourself up: * Remember our basic principle: Treat the...