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First dates can bring about excitement, nerves and anxiety. Some folks optimistically enter first dates, looking forward to meeting a new potential love. Other people meet the challenge with fear and hurt, cynically regarding this person as just another stranger to ruin your life (bleak, right?).
Wherever you are on the spectrum, it’s important to watch out for some red flags on a first date with a new boo. A lot of people will inadvertently tell you a lot about themselves by their body language and what they discuss throughout your first hang out.
Online dating expert Julie Spira explained that harsh or aggressive language on a first date is a major no-no.
“When you’re on a date or [chatting] with someone who criticizes you, or seems to have a negative or harsh tone, politely end the conversation,” Spira told Elite Daily.
“They could potentially have anger-management issues, and if so, I say run.”
Also keep an eye out on how much your date drinks. It’s okay to throw a couple back for a happy hour, but if they get drunk before 9pm their behavior should give you pause.
“I recommend taking your own vehicle [and] limiting alcoholic beverages to only one,” Spira advised.
There are also some pre-date signs that the person you want to get to know may be off-center.
Many people communicate via direct messages/texts before meeting up, so if you’re future date seems a little too eager or serious before you both are face-to-face, be careful.
“If someone tries to rush the relationship, especially before you’ve even met, and they say they’ve never felt this way before, it’s a sign that they could jump in and out of relationships fast,” Spira warns.
Also, if could-be-boo wants to meet in a private place over a public spot, you should deny the request and proceed with a public date location with caution.
“Trust your intuition,” Spira explained.
“There’s a reason your gut feels there’s something wrong. If you’re feeling unsafe, either cancel the date or leave early.”
