First dates can be thrilling, nerve-wracking, and, occasionally, a breeding ground for embarrassing moments. Whether it’s an awkward comment, a spill, or an unexpected turn of events, these cringe-worthy instances can leave you feeling mortified. But fear not, because in this discussion, we’ll explore strategies for handling embarrassing moments on a first date with grace and humor. From turning blunders into bonding experiences to regaining your composure, we’ll guide you through the art of navigating these uncomfortable situations and ensuring your first date remains an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Worried about humiliating yourself with a potential mate?
As much as we’d all love every first date to be characterized by freely flowing conversation, nonstop laughs, and a perfectly timed goodnight kiss that lands right as fireworks light up the sky – there’s always at least something that doesn’t go as smoothly as we’d imagined it. And sometimes that “something” can be prett-yyyyyyyyy, prett-yyyyyyyy bad. The good news, however, is that you can endure a painfully awkward moment and still easily get a second date as long as you know how to handle it.
Here’s how to deal with some of the most common embarrassing occurrences on a first date:
1. The Uncomfortable Lull
Even one awkward pause in conversation can lead to an entirely uncomfortable evening. To ensure a continuous flow all night long, prepare a loose mental list of topics that apply to anyone, and you can trot one out as soon as you feel that silence coming on.
Conversation starters might include life goals, hobbies, travel goals, or funny anecdotes – just be sure to have examples of your own just in case your question falls flat. And if all else fails, a pause in dialogue offers an excellent time to compliment your date (as long as that compliment isn’t too bizarre or creepy, like, “Hey – nice calves”).
2. Saying Something Stupid
Every now and then, you’re bound to say something that you almost instantly regret. Instead of fretting and letting a dumb comment ruin the rest of your date, try poking fun at yourself by making a joke about what you’ve just said. Nothing too self-deprecating or harsh, but using humor to express that you know you misspoke can definitely help diffuse the situation.
If the mere thought of improvised comedy overwhelms you (or you think you’re way funnier than you actually are), you can also simply change the topic. Whatever you do, don’t let one stupid line affect how you behave throughout the rest of the date, or go radio silent altogether. Confidence is always the sexiest trait of all!
3. Bodily Functions
Hey, everyone burps and farts – but doing so in the middle of a romantic evening can easily ruin the mood if not handled the right way. If you have an accidental gaseous eruption on a date that’s loud enough for your date to notice, immediately excuse yourself. But if you’re too apologetic and act like you’ll never be able to own up to the “terrible, unforgivable sin” you’ve just committed, you’re only going to make things worse. As suggested in the previous tip, either move on by changing the topic of conversation, or by making a funny comment about the incident such as, “My compliments to the chef!”.
4. Falling
Taking a spill is generally embarrassing anytime, anywhere, while with anyone. And high heels don’t make things any easier on the ladies when it comes to tripping or falling. If you fall on a date, it’s best to just let your date know that you’re okay and shake it off. Get back up, dust yourself off, and try very hard to walk the rest of the date without dipping for a second round. But if you do happen to go for an encore performance, you’ve got no choice but to make a joke in order to distract from your clumsiness.
5. Wardrobe Malfunction
If your pants slip down, or your nipple pops out, that moment of recognition can be humiliating. Just ask Janet Jackson (and she planned it!). But humor will once again serve you best here: rather than letting this minor setback throw you off of your game, quickly make a funny comment such as, “Oops! I was planning on waiting until the second date to show you that…”. If you can get your date laughing, no single awkward moment will have a shot at bringing down the evening of fun you’re having with your potential future boo.
