There is nothing quite like preparing for a first date. Butterflies, racing fantasies, giddy anticipation, fresh romance—we’ve all been there. Still, this whole putting on your “most attractive” form is much easier said than done.
PLAYBOY Magazine is back! Preorder your copy HERE
As Blink-182 beautifully articulated on their 2001 hit single, a first date evokes a cacophony of feelings. Awkwardness and vulnerability are certainly present, and often, it leads us to us doing (or saying) something stupid.
Again, we have all been there before. If you need personal examples cited, a quick cruise through Reddit‘s digital avenues will provide that. But from a romantic perspective, is there any coming back from that moment you just aren’t feeling it?
Can a Bad First Date Be Saved?
London-based relationships author Oloni Baby spoke to PLAYBOY’s Gabriel Santiago earlier in February. When Oloni was asked if she thought a bad first date can be salvaged, she stated, “That depends! What are the red flags? Does he have someone who’s constantly calling him? (…) Are these red flags calling him way too much after the date? Is it just nerves that didn’t make the date go as well as it could have?” Naturally, context is everything.
Oloni continues: “If the nerves felt only a little awkward, then I would say give it another shot. But if these are alarming red flags, as a woman, please keep it moving!”
Read more: Is ‘Body Count’ Important?
Playboy Club model Alex Stitchins also had some sound thoughts on the subject, telling PLAYBOY, “I do think that a bad first date can be saved to an extent!” Like Oloni, Alex further expresses that “first dates can be naturally awkward, and deserve a second chance to see if there’s a spark. However, the ‘ick’ is real and can strike at any moment. Once the ‘ick’ enters the chat, I feel like that’s a wrap.”
Ah yes, the ‘ick’ is to be avoided at all costs.
Something to Keep in Mind
Obviously, not all bad dates are created equal. There’s a clear difference between an encounter going poorly because you spilled an entire Old Fashioned on your favorite pants, versus an unpleasant night out to dinner with someone who is openly flirting with your restaurant server.
Assuming you don’t do anything creepy or blatantly disrespectful, many individuals are willing to forgive an awkward first date. With that in mind, communication is always key. If you feel there is genuine potential, a simple “Hi, sorry I was a little clunky tonight! I still think you’re pretty rad” type of text message can go a long way.
Most good-hearted people appreciate honesty. Furthermore, transparency increases relatability, which is vital for relationship compatibility. We are all humans, after all, just looking for somebody to love.
Find more relationship stories here.