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Dating

User Profile: PreciousReflection
PreciousReflection April 15th, 2022

I am supposed to go on a date this evening and have some anxiety about this. What if she doesn't like me? What if I don't like her? How can I avoid awkward pauses in conversation? Do I try to kiss her on the first date? It all increases my anxiety level since I have not dated in a very long time.

Does anyone have any suggestions or could share ways that you got through situations like this?

Thanks,

-Reflection

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User Profile: Sunisshiningandsoareyou
Sunisshiningandsoareyou April 27th, 2022

@PreciousReflection

Hello reflection, I understand how nerve wracking such instances are, and the multiple "what ifs" in our brain makes the anxiety worse, I'm sure many can relate with you. ❤

Coming to this a bit late though :') how did your date go?

4 replies
User Profile: PreciousReflection
PreciousReflection OP April 27th, 2022

@Sunisshiningandsoareyou

Thanks for responding. Date went OK, we had lots to talk about, but was not really a romantic connection in the end. More like two friends talking. And I haven't called her back in a week or two. So at least I got some practice facing my fear so next time will hopefully be a little easier.

Thanks again and good luck,

-Reflections

3 replies
User Profile: Sunisshiningandsoareyou
Sunisshiningandsoareyou April 27th, 2022

@PreciousReflection

Ofcourse and thankyou too.

I'm glad the date went okay, sometimes romantic connections may take time to build up hehe but it's nice to know y'all had lots to talk about even if it felt like a friendly vibe. That's really awesome to hear you got to practice managing your fear and indeed, perhaps the next time will be much better. Best wishes. ❤

User Profile: jblitz59
jblitz59 April 28th, 2022

Nice job though going through!


I suggest next time you have anticipatory anxiety you can answer- “so what?” Or “whatever” after realizing you are thinking of what if worries.


likewise realize, whatever is the worst that can happen is really harmless. And most likely it is a neutral or good outcome. As you realized in actuality

1 reply
User Profile: PreciousReflection
PreciousReflection OP May 2nd, 2022

@jblitz59

I like that, "so what?", and "whatever". I will try that next time I have anticipatory anxiety. Another phrase I use a lot is "What if it all works out" to combat worry. I'm not sure how well it works but I still use it as a last line of defense lol.

Thanks for the comment's, everyone, I do appreciate it!

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User Profile: rationalHouse139
rationalHouse139 June 6th, 2022

Can you recommend anything for me? any dating site

User Profile: fruityHorizon3940
fruityHorizon3940 September 6th, 2022

@PreciousReflection

Hi Reflection, I totally understand your anxiety and it coming from not wanting to mess up. Your date is most definitely over by now, but don't be nervous. You meeting this person allows for you to show who you are and why they'd be so lucky to have you. This is an opportunity to learn from your mistakes, and be unapologetically you. Don't overthink it, just go where your heart does❤️. I'm sure they'll love you. How did the date go?

User Profile: selfconfidentJar410
selfconfidentJar410 January 14th, 2025

To spend your free time in an interesting way, you can go for active walks in the fresh air, attend cultural events such as museums or concerts, or immerse yourself in a hobby such as painting or cooking. You can also chat and meet new people on platforms such as strapon dating , where you can expand your social circle. Traveling and exploring new places in your city is also a great way to diversify your free time and gain new experiences.

User Profile: LoquaciousCat
LoquaciousCat February 24th, 2025

@PreciousReflection. I understand your neverousness as daring can be full of stress.  It takes strength to go out and meet someone you don't know anything about or little.  Realize that you are a warrior for trying to make a positive step in your life and that you deserve love.  You'll do great.  Please let me know how your date went.  

User Profile: Mehmooda24
Mehmooda24 February 25th, 2025

@PreciousReflection Hello Reflection! I know going on a date after a long time might bring up alot of anxious thoughts. One thing that may help you is keep reminding yourself that is just about getting to know each other and you don't really have to have all answers. Sometimes being in present moment and enjoying it also helps coz it keeps us from distracting thoughts. 

You've got this!

User Profile: jocundle29
jocundle29 March 6th, 2025

@Hey Reflection,


I totally get why you’re feeling this way, first dates can be nerve-wracking, especially when it’s been a while! Here are a few things that might help:

Shift Your Mindset – Instead of worrying about whether she’ll like you, try to see this as an opportunity to get to know someone new. She’s probably feeling a little nervous too!

Go in With a Few Conversation Starters – Think about some light, open-ended questions (hobbies, favorite movies, travel, etc.) to keep the conversation flowing. And remember, pauses are normal ☺️

Be Present – Try not to overthink every moment. Just focus on enjoying the time together rather than planning your next move.

No Pressure on a Kiss – If it feels natural and there’s a connection, go for it! If not, no worries—a good first date is about enjoying each other’s company, not meeting expectations 😆 

Breathe and Have Fun! – Dating is supposed to be enjoyable. Worst case? You get some practice, and best case? You hit it off!


Wishing you an awesome date~!

– Jocundle29 

User Profile: ashish360
ashish360 March 23rd, 2025

Hey Reflection! I know exactly what you mean. I hadn't dated in 6 years until a few months ago. I had the exact same thoughts. What is the right thing to say? What is the current dating trend? Eventually, on the date I just fried my brain and stopped thinking. It didn't go well but, all my later dates did. You're not alone, I wish you all the best!

User Profile: mrnobody651
mrnobody651 July 31st, 2025

Dating can definitely bring up some nerves, especially if it's been a while since you've been out there. First, let's tackle the "what ifs" - what if she doesn't like you, what if you don't like her. The thing is, it's okay if it doesn't work out. You'll never know if you don't try, and it's all about finding someone who's a good match for you.

As for awkward pauses, the key is to be genuine and relaxed. Ask her questions about herself, her interests, and listen actively. That way, you'll have plenty to talk about, and the conversation will flow more naturally. You can also prepare some fun, lighthearted questions to ask her, like what's her favorite hobby or what kind of music she likes.

Regarding the kiss, it's totally up to you and how you read the situation. Pay attention to body language and verbal cues. If the vibe feels right, a gentle, respectful gesture can be a nice way to end the date. But don't stress too much about it - the goal of a first date is to get to know each other, not to force anything.

Lastly, try to focus on enjoying the experience, rather than putting too much pressure on it being perfect. Take a few deep breaths, be yourself, and remember that it's okay to be a little nervous. You've got this! .Good luck

User Profile: selfconfidentLemon2160
selfconfidentLemon2160 November 19th, 2025

It’s completely normal to feel nervous before a date, especially if you haven’t been in the dating scene for a while. I’ve been in that same spot where you start overthinking every possible scenario and worrying about awkward silences. The best thing that helped me was shifting the focus from impressing someone to simply getting to know them as a person. At some point I even used browsing light topics like Brunette (Hair Color) as a way to calm down and take my mind off the pressure. Just remember that a date isn’t an exam — it’s a conversation. Let things unfold naturally, ask open questions, listen actively, and if the chemistry is there, the moment for a kiss will feel obvious instead of forced.