Dating in today’s society can be a tedious and time-consuming process which requires individuals to venture on multiple dates before they realize that they are connected with the person they have been dating all this while.

However, several indicators are oftentimes present on the first date that prevents individuals from getting into relationships that they will later regret months or years later.

While it is important to have an open mind on the first date due to differing personalities, if something does not feel right is probably because it is it’s not.

Our Today has five helpful tips that can save you time and prevent you from experiencing regret for venturing into a relationship that should have ended on the first date.

Punctuality

As the popular saying states first impressions are usually lasting impressions, this is the same for being late for a first date. A clear red flag is your date showing up extremely late for the date without sending a message or calling to indicate that they are having an issue and will be running late.

While there may be many possible reasons for someone showing up late for a date such as traffic and personal reasons, it is equally important for them to take responsibility for being late and update the next party on what’s going on.

self-centred

A first date should be about connecting through a mutual conversation to understand the different personalities. If your date spends the majority of the date giving you a lecture about themselves and their many accomplishments without asking you questions about yourself, then that is a clear indication that you don’t need to advance to a second date.

They spend the majority of their time on their phone

Another red flag is a person spending the majority of the date scrolling through their phone checking messages or notifications. It is important for both parties to understand the different personalities and get to know each other. If a person cannot put away their phone for an hour or two, then that is a clear indication that they do not value your time or your company.

They make you feel uncomfortable

If your date makes you feel uncomfortable by asking too many personal questions or coerces you to become intimate with them on the first date, then that is a clear indication that you should end the date while you can.

First dates are usually to get to know more about each other after communicating over the phone for some time. It is important to establish clear boundaries at the beginning of the date. If you are not comfortable in a situation do not be afraid to say no and excuse yourself politely.

Personal hygiene

Personal hygiene and physical appearance are key factors to take into consideration on a first date. It is a major pet peeve for many persons to come in contact with an adult with a foul odour.

Despite the gender, it is important to look and smell your best for a first date. One’s physical appearance says much about their values and character. Therefore, if someone invests time in their appearance then it simply means they value themselves.