When you're online dating, you might have to go on quite a few first dates before anything happens. And what happens if those dates don't go well? It can feel like a huge waste of time -- or worse if you really like the person. However, it is possible to redeem yourself from a horrible first date.
If your first date didn't go well, don't worry. Not every date is successful. Sometimes, you might even find yourself a bit bored with the whole process. Here are some tips if you bombed and want to try for a much better date next time around.
1. Admit that the date was bad
The first thing you need to remember is that a bad date is not a reflection on you. It's natural to be nervous when meeting someone for the first time, so never punish yourself for feeling anxious. However, you will need admit to yourself if the date wasn't up to par. Otherwise, you won't be able to bounce back.
2. Evaluate the situation
Take a moment to understand what actually happened. What went wrong? Did you do or say something inappropriate? Did a topic of conversation come up that made one or both of you uncomfortable? Were you just bored and disconnected from the other person? Think about it thoroughly. Perhaps talk through the situation with a friend. You may feel relieved to talk about it.
3. Apologize if you need to
Even if you don't know what went wrong, an apology may be on the horizon. If you messed up, apologize. Tell them how embarrassed you are about the whole situation. Ask if you could start over. You can also send an apology in the form of a text message, flowers or a phone call.
4. Embrace your sense of humor
If your first date didn't go well, laugh it off. Find the humor in the situation. If you can make the other person find it funny, it will help you convince them that the first time was a fluke.
5. Ask for a second chance
It's okay to ask for a second chance. If you think that you can make a better impression than the first one, ask for a do-over. Explain the situation and try to find a way to make it up to them.
6. Switch it up if you get another chance
If you got them to agree to a second date, don't repeat the same formula as the first time around. Instead, do something totally different. If you've taken your partner for dinner or to a movie, opt for an active date like taking a hike or going bowling. If neither one of your are great conversationlists, this will help if there is a lull in the discussion.
7. Move on if all else fails
If all else fails, move on. You can't force someone into hanging out with you. Trust their instincts the same way you would trust yours. Besides, isn't it better to spend time with someone who wants to be around you?
We're all human, so there is no need to feel embarrassed or depressed about a bad first date. The only thing is to recover and move on. If the other person is interested in you and feels that your relationship can be given another chance, good luck. If not, remember that there are other fish in the sea!