Tough Topics to Avoid on a First Date

Remember that old saying: “discretion is the better part of valor? It has some bearing here.

Photo by Alejandro Escamilla on Unsplash

Not everyone has the gift of schmooze, but it’s safe to say that there are some things that are likely to turn off many a potential love interest. Learning to avoid them might help you in your own quest to find “the one.” So, here’s a quick list of “what not to mention” on your next meet and greet.

1. Your date’s appearance — especially how you think it could be improved to greatly increase their chances of attracting a mate. Yes, I have had this happen on a first meet and greet. I swear I showered. This reeks of judgment and has no place in a casual conversation with someone you’ve just met. Later, when you know them well, you can gently introduce well-intended suggestions, if you are that kind of person. (I’m not.) My friend Beth was very good at this. “There are these things called ‘products,’ Jeffrey, and I think you should use them…”
2. Your pet name for your former spouse. ‘Voldemort,’ for instance, or the old standard, ‘Cruella de Vil.’ In fact, why mention your spouse at all, unless directly asked? Don’t anchor your conversation around any aspect of your former partner, or your life together. Be your own person. If you aren’t sure who that is, maybe you shouldn’t be dating.