Sure, the jitters can creep up on dates, but in some cases, nerves can be a huge turn off for women. This might be partly the reason why a perfectly dateable guy is still single. Why let the insecurities stop you from finding a partner?
Shatter your fears and learn how to overcome the nerves - and other common dating insecurities - with these tips below:
You're trying too hard, but you end up embarrassing yourself. Do you worry that you might say something stupid to your date? Are you afraid you might choke on your food, or accidently spill on her clothes, or step on her toe? Relax. These things can happen, but it's not the end of the world. Your date might also be worrying about the very same things.
Instead of thinking about how to act perfectly, know that it's OK to show a little vulnerability at times. Just act as you normally would, as your date will be able to sense your nerves when you don't. "When you see another person being embarrassed, it humanizes that person and you feel a natural kinship," said Dan Neuharth, according to Match.Com. Some great relationships start off with the worst date experience the couple happily tells their grandchildren many years later.
You're concerned about your appearance. How many times did you change your shirt before you left the house? Are you worried she will notice your skin breakouts or the fact that your hair is starting to thin out? Will she judge your shoes? Not to put any pressure but, yes, the woman you're on a date with might be ticking off her list as she assesses the way you look. That's the point of the first few dates, right? You both need to find out if there's some real attraction there.
But seeking approval from your date will only ruin whatever shot you might have at a possible real relationship. If the way you look is a concern, then take this as a cue to work on improving yourself. Invest in new clothes, develop different grooming habits, or change your hairstyle to improve your appearance, according to Doctor Nerd Love.
You're nervous about getting intimate. Whether it's the first kiss, or the first make-out, or the first time together in bed, being intimate can drive up anxiety in men especially when they're with a new partner. Understand that there's no magic to intimacy and sometimes you have to create the moments for sparks to happen, according to Relationships Australia. If you let your insecurities about it consume you, you could ruin the moment.
To boost your confidence, it's a good idea to prepare for the moment. For one thing, having a breath mint handy would help appease your nerves. "Menthol triggers the body's cold receptors, and when that's combined with your warm breath, you'll feel a tingly sensation from your lips straight down to your genitals," according to Ava Cadell, a sextologist, via Women's Health.
