The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization with investments in media platforms spanning newspaper print
operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital and online services. The Standard Group is recognized as a
leading multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in matters of national and international interest.
A man's guide: Common dos and don'ts of dating (Photo: iStock)
Ah, the first date - a delicate dance of charm, wit, and not-so-subtle attempts to impress. As a young man, the pressure can be overwhelming, but fear not! We've got your back with a comprehensive list of dos and don'ts to ensure your first date is a roaring success (or at least a hilarious disaster you can laugh about later).
The don'ts: Avoid these dating disasters
Don't show up with bad breath: Unless you're trying to scare off your date with your dragon-like halitosis, keep those minty fresh breath mints handy. Who needs a flaming-hot dragon breath when you can have a cool, minty-fresh kiss?
Don't let the lady pay for the food, even if she asks: Chivalry may be dead, but your wallet doesn't have to be. Offer to pick up the tab, and watch her swoon (or at least pretend to be impressed). After all, what's more attractive than a man who can handle his finances?
Don't pretend to be a know-it-all: Nobody likes a walking encyclopedia, especially on a first date. Keep the trivia to a minimum and focus on being an engaging conversationalist. Unless, of course, you're trying to impress your date with your vast knowledge of useless facts.
Don't bash your ex: We get it, your ex was a total nightmare, but save the sob story for your therapist. Keep the conversation positive and forward-looking. After all, who wants to hear about your ex's dirty laundry on a first date?
Don't take selfies or pictures of your dinner: Unless you're trying to impress your date with your culinary photography skills, leave the phone in your pocket and be present in the moment. Who needs a social media update when you've got a real-life date to focus on?
Don't be too touchy: Respect personal boundaries, and save the handholding and cuddling for when you've established a deeper connection. Unless, of course, you're going for the "creepy stalker" vibe.
Don't make the first date super fancy or over the top: Stick to a casual, low-key setting, and save the grand gestures for when you've really won her over. After all, who wants to feel like they're on a first date with a millionaire?
Don't ask about her ex: Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it can also kill a first date. Steer clear of this sensitive topic and focus on getting to know her better. Unless, of course, you're a masochist who enjoys the pain of a failed date.
Don't overstay the date: Know when to call it a night. A graceful exit will leave your date wanting more, rather than counting down the minutes until you finally leave. Who needs a clingy date when you can have a mysterious one?
Don't give too much personal information: Keep the deep, dark secrets for later. Stick to light, fun conversation and save the heavy stuff for when you've built a stronger connection. Unless, of course, you're trying to scare off your date with your dark and twisted past.
Don't move too fast and look obsessed: Slow and steady wins the race, my friend. Don't come on too strong, or you might scare her off faster than a speeding bullet. Unless, of course, you're going for the "desperate and needy" look.
Don't get drunk or high: Keeping a clear head is crucial for making a good impression. Save the party antics for when you're with your buddies. Unless, of course, you're trying to impress your date with your ability to hold your liquor.
Don't make promises you can't keep: Avoid the dreaded "I'll call you soon" trap. If you mean it, say it, but don't make empty promises just to seem interested. Unless, of course, you're a professional liar.
Don't kiss her on the first night unless she initiates or you get a strong vibe: Respect her boundaries and let the moment unfold naturally. Forcing a kiss can be a major turnoff. Unless, of course, you're a fan of awkward silences and uncomfortable moments.
The dos: Impress your date with these winning moves
Do make small talk with the waiters: It shows you have charm, personality, and the ability to connect with people. Plus, the staff might just slip you a free dessert! Who knows, you might even get a free meal out of it.
Do open all doors for her: Chivalry may be dead, but you can revive it with a simple door-opening gesture. Bonus points if you do it with a dashing smile. After all, who doesn't love a gentleman?
Do plan the date: Taking the initiative to plan a thoughtful, well-organized date shows you're a responsible and considerate partner. Avoid last-minute decisions and spontaneity, as women often need time to prepare and plan for a date. Show her you've put in the effort by arranging everything in advance.
Do be early: Punctuality is a sign of respect and shows you're eager to spend time with your date.
Do your research: Discreetly find out if she has any dietary restrictions or preferences, but don't go overboard and come across as a stalker.
Do a follow-up if it goes well: A simple text or call the next day to express your interest and desire to see her again can go a long way.
Remember, the key to a successful first date is to be confident, considerate, and above all, have fun! Embrace the awkwardness, laugh at your mistakes, and focus on getting to know your date. Who knows, you might just find your soulmate.
The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization with investments in media platforms spanning newspaper print
operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital and online services. The Standard Group is recognized as a
leading multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in matters of national and international interest.
Don't take selfies or pictures of your dinner: Unless you're trying to impress your date with your culinary photography skills, leave the phone in your pocket and be present in the moment. Who needs a social media update when you've got a real-life date to focus on?
Don't be too touchy: Respect personal boundaries, and save the handholding and cuddling for when you've established a deeper connection. Unless, of course, you're going for the "creepy stalker" vibe.
Don't make the first date super fancy or over the top: Stick to a casual, low-key setting, and save the grand gestures for when you've really won her over. After all, who wants to feel like they're on a first date with a millionaire?
Don't ask about her ex: Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it can also kill a first date. Steer clear of this sensitive topic and focus on getting to know her better. Unless, of course, you're a masochist who enjoys the pain of a failed date.
Don't overstay the date: Know when to call it a night. A graceful exit will leave your date wanting more, rather than counting down the minutes until you finally leave. Who needs a clingy date when you can have a mysterious one?
Don't give too much personal information: Keep the deep, dark secrets for later. Stick to light, fun conversation and save the heavy stuff for when you've built a stronger connection. Unless, of course, you're trying to scare off your date with your dark and twisted past.
Don't move too fast and look obsessed: Slow and steady wins the race, my friend. Don't come on too strong, or you might scare her off faster than a speeding bullet. Unless, of course, you're going for the "desperate and needy" look.
Don't get drunk or high: Keeping a clear head is crucial for making a good impression. Save the party antics for when you're with your buddies. Unless, of course, you're trying to impress your date with your ability to hold your liquor.
Don't make promises you can't keep: Avoid the dreaded "I'll call you soon" trap. If you mean it, say it, but don't make empty promises just to seem interested. Unless, of course, you're a professional liar.
Don't kiss her on the first night unless she initiates or you get a strong vibe: Respect her boundaries and let the moment unfold naturally. Forcing a kiss can be a major turnoff. Unless, of course, you're a fan of awkward silences and uncomfortable moments.
The dos: Impress your date with these winning moves
Do make small talk with the waiters: It shows you have charm, personality, and the ability to connect with people. Plus, the staff might just slip you a free dessert! Who knows, you might even get a free meal out of it.
Do open all doors for her: Chivalry may be dead, but you can revive it with a simple door-opening gesture. Bonus points if you do it with a dashing smile. After all, who doesn't love a gentleman?
Do plan the date: Taking the initiative to plan a thoughtful, well-organized date shows you're a responsible and considerate partner. Avoid last-minute decisions and spontaneity, as women often need time to prepare and plan for a date. Show her you've put in the effort by arranging everything in advance.
Do be early: Punctuality is a sign of respect and shows you're eager to spend time with your date.
Do your research: Discreetly find out if she has any dietary restrictions or preferences, but don't go overboard and come across as a stalker.
Do a follow-up if it goes well: A simple text or call the next day to express your interest and desire to see her again can go a long way.
Remember, the key to a successful first date is to be confident, considerate, and above all, have fun! Embrace the awkwardness, laugh at your mistakes, and focus on getting to know your date. Who knows, you might just find your soulmate.
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