by M W

Created on: November 17, 2008   Last Updated: September 19, 2011

First dates can be intimidating, and the most knee wobbling moments come when conversation dwindles and awkward moments occur. But you can handle this if you keep in mind a few key topics to stick to, and a few true blue no no's to steer clear of. Keep yourself in check. This isn't the time for marriage, or similar discussions. It's a first date and time to let your real personality shine through.

TOPICS: Now, some topics that can lead into more interesting and indepth conversation pieces can include current events, hobbies, and funny stories (though nothing too personal). Keep it light, and don't worry. Make sure your personality shines through as you try to unwind. Your date is just as nervous as you. Clear the air and laugh it off. Avoid personal statements and beliefs, including religion and politics, Ex-significant others, and life goals. You're not on the first date to have babies, or tie the knot. Remember that! And you're not looking for Mr. or Mrs. Right. It's all about right now, in the moment.

BE YOURSELF: Laugh if you find something funny. Talk about your hobbies, or your favorite television shows. So many moments during the date allow you to truly shine, and to add relevance to the seemingly meaningless topics. But don't stress. Just flow. Because if it's meant to be than it will be. You can't force anything.

PERSONALITY, NOT LIFE GOALS: Skim the surface when it comes to your background and where you want to head in life. You're not looking to spill the secrets of your heart just yet. And you're certainly not looking to compare life goals of marriage, work and children. Your main priority is to allow the person sitting near or across from you to know who you are and what you represent, initially. If things progress you can begin to feed information to your date to see if you're a match. But the first date is meant for to be superficial in a way. It's about the vibe mostly.

KEEP IT TRUTHFUL: Once you start lying don't expect to stop anytime soon. One lie leads into another, and it causes nothing but a mess. How can you expect your personality to shine through if suddenly you're something you're not. It's better to not answer than to tell some sort of fib. No matter how small it may seem.

Dating doesn't have to be scary. It helps to keep your expectations to a minimum, and just go in with a light and fun attitude. Your goals are simple, it's only a matter of keeping yourself in check.

Learn more about this author, M W.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.