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First dates can be seriously awkward and also incredibly nerve-wrecking. I know that, for me, the thing I stress over the most when it comes to a date with someone new is what we’re going to talk about. Having a conversation with a guy I barely know sounds terrifying to me and I’m sure I’m not alone. Sure, I want to look good – but it’s not all about that. It doesn’t matter how good you look if you come off as boring and stupid, you know?
Apparently, dudes feel the same way. In a recent survey, guys said that the thing that makes them the most nervous about first dates are first date conversations. I guess it’s kind of comforting to know that we’re all in the same boat, but honestly, it doesn’t make me feel too much better. So to help out those of you who feel the same way I do, here are 10 do’s and don’ts of first date conversations: what to talk about and what you should definitely avoid.
Do Talk About: Pets
Pets are an easy and, usually, fun topic to bring up on a date. People either love or hate animals, so either the dude will be thrilled to talk about his dog BFF from home or he'll love the chance to rant about how he's not into pets. Either way, this is usually pretty safe. Source: ShutterStockDon't Talk About: Family Stuff
Something you may not want to bring up on a first date when you guys are just getting to know each other? Family stuff. Families can be complicated and who knows what goes on behind closed doors at his house, you know? You don't know if he doesn't get along with his family, if one of them recently passed away or anything like that. The point is, this can easily turn into a pretty heavy topic and first date convos usually shouldn't be like that. Source: ShutterStockDo Talk About: Sports
Feel free to bring up sports - but only if you're into them. Don't pretend to love football if really you don't know anything about it. That won't impress him. See what he's into or not into... and it's okay if you guys get into a friendly debate about it. Guys dig confidence and that means they like girls who aren't afraid to express their opinions. Source: ShutterStockDon't Talk About: Politics
Ugh. Politics. I'm all for a smart, news-centered political discussion, but a first date isn't really the place for that. Any talk about politics can get ugly fast so I wouldn't even touch it until you get to know the guy better. Source: ShutterStockDo Talk About: Food
Food! Everyone loves food! This may sound kind of boring, but to make it a little more interesting, you can talk about your favorite restaurant or place to get ice cream. That also gives you the perfect opening to be a little flirty and say something like, "Maybe we can go there sometime." Wink-wink. Source: ShutterStockDon't Talk About: Mean Gossip
I love a good gossip sesh as much as anyone else, but looking catty and superficial isn't great on a first date when you're trying to make a good impression. Guys can easily get turned off by a girl who only has mean things to say about other people. So play nice! Source: ShutterStockDo Talk About: School
Boring? Sure. Safe? Definitely. But if you guys go to the same school and have some of the same classes, talking about that stuff will probably feel the most comfortable and easy. It's a good conversation starter to get both of you feeling a little bit more willing to talk. Source: ShutterStockDon't Talk About: Religion
Just like politics, religion is another topic that spark a lot of angry discussion. I know that it's part of getting to know someone, but I would consider holding off on the religious debates. Source: ShutterStockDo Talk About: Movies, TV Shows Or Music
Are you a movie buff? Talk about your favorites that are out now. Do you know you two both watch the same TV show? Discuss how awesome/terrible the last episode was. And same goes with music - if you both have similar taste, talk about it. These are pretty easy and fun topics, especially if you're passionate about them. Source: ShutterStockDon't Talk About: Your Ex
I feel like I say this every other day, but seriously, don't talk about your ex in front of a new guy. It is only going to make it seem like you haven't moved on - or that you're just really bitter and angry. Not cute. Source: ShutterStockDo you agree with these tips? What is your go-to topic for first date conversations? What did I miss? Tell me in the comments!
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