Senior Date Just As Hard The Second Time

A first time senior date is every bit as nerve racking as a first date for a 16 year old. Life experience does nothing to ease the jitters of meeting someone for a romantic connection for the first time. In fact, if you have recently left a long time relationship, it may be even harder for you to go out on the “scene” again than it is for younger people. Here’s some tips to minimize the anxiety for a first time senior date.

First of all, you should lower the expectations. Don’t expect your first date to be the person who you spend the rest of your life with. Think of it as a way to meet a new person who you might be friends – or more – with.

Next, choose the location well. Many people think of a date as dinner and a movie. But this may be too much for a first senior date. Instead, meet for coffee or lunch. That keeps things on a lighter level. More importantly, it keeps the date short.

If you share common interests, that makes a great first senior date. For instance, if you both enjoy art, go to an opening at an art museum. You will find it much easier to talk when you have a natural common interest in front of you.

Avoid making a date for someplace where you will be alone. A picnic by a secluded creek can be very romantic, but it’s not a good idea for a first date.

But, going to a movie, play, or music event, even though it is crowded, may not be a good idea either. That’s because it doesn’t give you a chance to talk.

You should always arrive at your destination in separate vehicles so that either of you can leave if things get uncomfortable. Also, let a friend or family member know where you are going and who you are going with. It is unfortunate, but these days, it is important to be safe.

After a first senior date, you have to decide whether to see the person again. If the first date was enjoyable and the companionship seems good, by all means go out again. If you were at all uncomfortable, listen to your instincts.

Don’t feel that you have to go out on second dates just because you went out on the first one. Life’s too short at this point to go on meaningless dates. It may also prevent you from investing the emotional energy into finding someone with whom you can spend the rest of your life.

Yes, a senior date is just as nerve racking as a high school date. But first dates remain first dates whatever the age. Go out with confidence, hoping for romance, and committed to having fun whatever the outcome.