7 Dating Tips You Didn't Think of

Dating should be easy, but it never is. How do you meet someone and what do you do on a date? There are always dating sites and even professional matchmakers. Dating sites can be successful, but it usually takes several tries before you meet someone you want to date again. The idea of a professional matchmaker screening potential dates takes the excitement out of meeting a potential life-partner on your own.

It is possible to start dating without help from a website or professional. You might need to make a few changes but it will be worth it when you finally meet your "perfect" person. Here are seven dating tips that might improve your love life.

7 Tips for Successful Dating

Sometimes people have problems meeting someone they would ask out on a date. Other times, they have no idea how to behave or what to do on one. Here are a few tips that will help you get your love life "on track".

1. Leave the bar scene.

Bars can be a great place to meet people, especially if you're new to the neighborhood or city. It's not uncommon for lifelong friendships to develop over a few beers and friendly games of pool. You can also meet a potential date among the regulars. One thing you might be missing is meeting other people. You have limited yourself to patrons at a single type of establishment. If the first date or relationship doesn't work out, going back to your favorite watering hole can be uncomfortable.

Take a chance and strike up a conversation at the laundry mat, gym or even in line at the grocery store. Just by being pleasant and friendly, you could meet someone that you want to ask out on a date.

2. Consider letting your friends introduce you to someone.

Your friends often know you better than anyone else. They know your likes and dislikes. More importantly, they want you to be happy. If there is someone that they keep recommending, why not give it a chance? This person has already been "vetted" by your friends, which is more assuring than meeting a stranger off of a website.

There is one rule that you want to set down before the date. Your friends must accept that it is neither yours or the date's fault if the chemistry isn't there.

3. Think about dating a friend.

This doesn't apply to all of your friends that you could be potentially interested in. Some friendships have a bond that discourages romantic feelings. However, this isn't true for all friendships. Some have underlying chemistry that one or both parties have ignored.

One benefit of dating a friend is that you are already familiar with their values, family, and background. There is less of a chance of uncovering unpleasant surprises in their personality or history. Relationship experts also state that friendship is the foundation for any successful relationship. You already have a solid foundation when you date a friend.

4. Understand the importance of first impressions

It's difficult to find a situation more stressful than a first date. Your first impression lasts throughout the date, not just the initial greeting. This generally means a few hours of not only looking your best but also being on "perfect" behavior. Watching your words and actions for hours can be mentally exhausting.

Once you've decided on an outfit, relax and be confident in your appearance. Not worrying about your clothes will relieve some first date jitters. Make eye contact with your date, and smile. You also want to pay attention to what they are saying. This not only helps in your response, but it also helps to make a good first impression. Nerves are okay and natural, just don't focus solely on your anxiety and your date should go smoothly.

5. Be responsive, show emotion

Whether it's your first, second or third date, don't "play it cool". Not only is it unattractive and unsettling to not show appropriate emotions, but it's also hard to make a connection with your date. This doesn't mean faking laughter at a poorly told joke. Instead, let them know that you're enjoying the evening. Being kind, responsive, and pleasant will make a great impression and help forge a connection.

6. Do not "over-share"

You want to chat with your date, it is the best way to get to know someone. However, there is a fine line between a pleasant chat and sharing too much personal information. And never forget the fact that you are dating a stranger initially. The idea during the beginning stages of a potential relationship is to slowly get to know the person you're interested in. This also applies to them. They do not need to hear the details of your previous relationships. If the relationship continues, these and other personal details will be revealed over time. The best way to not get a second date is to over-share.

7. Notice how you talk to your date

You and your date will chat throughout the date and this is a positive sign. You are engaging in conversation and getting to know your date. You also want to pay attention to vocal tone. It also says a lot about how you feel. Men often drop the pitch of their voice when they're talking to a date they find attractive, according to one study. Another study found that when both parties use words like "tons" and "quite" they have a statically higher chance of becoming a couple.

Summary

There isn't any perfect formula for having a successful date or even meeting someone that you'd want to take out. These dating tips can open up new possibilities for meeting people, along with ensuring that you get a second date if that's what you want. Just remember to make a good first impression and be yourself. Be open, responsive, and most importantly make eye contact.