How to Have a Good Date: A Simple Guide to Making It Count

A good date doesn’t require fancy dinners or perfect one-liners. At its core, a successful date is about connection, comfort, and presence. Whether you're meeting someone new or spending quality time with a long-term partner, a few simple choices can make the experience more meaningfu and a lot more enjoyable.

Here’s how to have a good date, without overthinking it.

Show Up, Fully and On Time. First impressions matter, and showing up on time is one of the simplest ways to make a good one. Being punctual demonstrates respect for your date’s time and sets a positive tone for the rest of the evening. Once you’re there, be present. That means putting your phone away, making eye contact, and actively listening. In an age of distractions, your full attention is a rare and appreciated gift.

Dress for the Occasion (and for Yourself). You don’t need to wear your most expensive outfit—but what you wear should show that you care. Dress appropriately for the setting and choose clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable. Confidence is attractive, and being physically at ease will help you relax and be yourself.

Pick the Right Setting. Where you go can influence how your date feels. Choose a venue that allows for conversation (somewhere not too loud, crowded, or formal). Think coffee shop, casual bar, art exhibit, or even a walk in the park. If you're more adventurous, an activity-based date like a cooking class or mini-golf can ease nerves and give you something fun to focus on together. Avoid overly intimate or high-pressure locations, especially for a first date. Public, neutral spaces help keep things comfortable and safe.

Talk, Listen, and Share. Great conversation is about balance. Ask open-ended questions that invite your date to share stories and thoughts, not just yes-or-no answers. At the same time, don’t be afraid to open up about yourself. Avoid topics that are too heavy too soon—like past relationships, politics, or deeply personal struggles—unless the context naturally leads there. Vulnerability is valuable, but timing is everything. Keep it light, engaging, and respectful. Remember: a date is not an interview. You’re not trying to check boxes, you’re trying to connect.

Be Kind and Authentic. Kindness never goes unnoticed. Whether it’s how you speak to your date or how you treat the server, manners matter. Say thank you. Smile. Be polite. Most importantly, be yourself. Pretending to be someone you're not may work in the short term, but authenticity is what builds genuine, lasting connections. Let your personality shine, even if it means being a little quirky or imperfect.

Know What to Avoid. Some things can quietly sabotage a date. Here are a few common missteps to steer clear of:

• Talking extensively about exes or past relationships

• Drinking too much or losing self-awareness

• Oversharing sensitive or controversial opinions too early

• Monopolising the conversation

• Being rude to staff or acting entitled

Staying grounded and self-aware is key to keeping the energy positive and respectful.

End Gracefully, and Follow Up. When the date ends, don’t feel pressure to define anything right away. If it went well, say so! A simple follow-up message like “I had a great time, would love to do this again” can mean a lot. If the chemistry wasn’t there, it’s okay to move on, just do so respectfully. Ghosting may feel easier, but a kind, honest message is a far better reflection of your character.

A good date isn’t about being impressive, but about being intentional. With the right mindset, a little effort, and a willingness to connect, even a simple outing can turn into something special.

Because at the end of the day, the best dates aren’t about where you go or what you wear—they’re about how you make each other feel.