Dating can be an experience filled with excitement and passion, but can also be filled with embarrassment and frustration. Traditional dating involves going to do something with another person or in a group, often out to a meal or to get coffee.  There are many shades of dates; bad, good, indifferent, and some are downright miserable. The goal in dating is to make your experiences as pleasant as possible. Here are some tips for dating do’s and don’ts.

Do go into the date with reasonable expectations. If you expect to fall in love at first sight, you will usually be disappointed. If you are going on a date with an individual who makes a moderate income, do not expect a lavish, expensive date. The goal is to set yourself up for reasonable expectations. Reasonable meaning what is typical for societal standards. This being said, don’t give up all of your values for the sake of finding a partner. If your date is rude, or performs in a way that is unacceptable to you, don’t be afraid to walk away from them.

Do take care of your appearance before your date. No one wants to meet a date that looks like he just walked in off the streets or just finished a soccer game. Make an effort. Appearances do count, and first impressions are very important. You do not have to go all out with fancy clothes, tons of cologne or perfume, and lavish jewelry. Just be yourself, but make sure to groom yourself appropriately before the date. Look like you made an effort. Nothing says “I really don’t care that much about you” like showing up for a first date with wrinkly clothes and messy hair.

Don’t try to be a different person while you are with your date. There is no point in pretending to be someone else, because if your date likes this ulterior persona you create, they will not like the real you. If you are being yourself during the date, and the date happens to not like you, just move on. It will be easier in the long run to be honest with your date and show your true colors early on.

Do remember to have fun during your date. Do not take the date too seriously. Many people hate dating because they are afraid of having an embarrassing moment or awkward silence. Just go into the date with the mindset that things will be a little awkward at first, and try not to stress too much about it. If something embarrassing happens, just laugh it off and move on. Even if you feel insecure or awkward, don’t let your date know it. Do have confidence in yourself and regardless of how many embarrassing things get in the way, that self-confidence will radiate through.

There are a few things not to talk about during a first date. Don’t discuss topics related to politics, religion or past relationships. It is tempting to divulge all of your beliefs and opinions on a first date, but a first date should be lighthearted and fun. Save those serious topics for date number 8 or 9, not the first or even second date.

Do remember to give your full attention to your date. If you ask someone out on a date, the date should be about him or her. Do ask a lot of questions about them. Everyone loves to talk about himself or herself so you can never go wrong here. Remember things your date said they liked or enjoyed and surprise them with it on the next date.

Dating should be a fun and exciting process. Just remember these dating do's  and don’ts to have more exciting and successful dates.