Got any tips for making a great date?
Tip #1: Determine What Your Date Likes and DislikesAsk these questions before planning your date… What interests him/her? Does he/she like the outdoors or the performing arts? Eliminate those things he/she does not like to do.
Tip #2: Count Your Money
This will often narrow down the choice. If you do have a lot of money, spend it wisely or not at all. There are many fun dates that require no money (your imagination/creative ideas will impress her more than your money!)
Tip #3: Maximize Conversation
One of the main reasons for dating is to grow in your friendship. Always try to structure as much time to talk as possible.
Tip #4: Ensure a Fun Time
Take time to thoroughly plan your dates. Go over all the details as you plan fun dates. The more your date enjoys the time, the longer she will remember it and you.
Tip #5: Keep Dates Out of a Rut
Try not to plan the same date twice. When it’s a big hit, do it again later, but wait a while. Add variety.
Tip #6: Include Others
Group dating takes the social pressure off you and helps to keep the conversation going. In addition, you build other relationships, and it keeps you out of tempting situations.
Tip #7: Pick Different Times
Plan dates for morning and afternoon as well as in the evening. You will see different sides to your date’s personality and keep the dates interesting.
Tip #8: Avoid Tempting Situations
Avoid places or people that put compromising thoughts in your head. Your date is special to you and her parents, so take good care of her!
Tip #9: Set Your Standards and Limits
Know what is best for you and the other person, now and in the future; if you have different standards than your date, go with the more conservative limit.
Tip #10: Put Friendship as Top Priority
Your main goal for the relationship should be to be best friends.
Tip #11: Only Date People Who Share Your Values
If they have a “reputation” avoid dating them!
Tip #12: Find Pressure-Free Friends
True friends want what is best for you. If a date or friend pressures you to do something you know is wrong then they are not thinking of you but themselves.
Tip #13: Be Aware of Temptation
What is tempting for you? Romantic movies, dark environments, dress, alcohol
Tip #14: Avoid Drugs and Alcohol
They decrease your ability to think clearly and make good decisions.
Tip #15: Know the Potential Consequences of Sexual Activity
Education is the key; realize the media does not give you a realistic view of the consequences.
Tip #16: Let Your Parents Be a Valuable Part of Your Relationship
Or ask another adult mentor to encourage you and hold you accountable.
Tip #17: Be Creative in Your Dating
Make dating fun and pressure free.
Tip #18: Focus on Other Areas of Intimacy
Take the emphasis off of the physical attraction. Share emotional, intellectual, relational, and spiritual values and beliefs.
(www.waittraining.org)