Love it or hate it, the truth of the matter is if you want to get married one day and you aren’t a member of a culture where your spouse is chosen for you, you are going to have to go on a few (or many) dates. If you’ve been dating for a while, you know that doing the same thing all the time, even with different people, can get boring and completely turn you off from dating.
What if we told you that you can have fun dating again? Oh yeah, you can go out with that cute barista that adds a little extra sugar to your latte and actually have fun! Curious to know how?
4 Tips for the Next Date
1. Stop Expecting the Date to Suck
Okay, we get it. You’ve gone to dinner and a movie 5 times within 4 weeks and you’re tired of it. Whether you are going with someone new each time or it’s your steady partner, treat the date as if you are doing it the first time. You can switch it up and go to a restaurant you’ve never been to before. Go to a theater that is out of town, or a vintage theater, or if you’re lucky enough, go to a drive in. Yes, you are still going out to dinner and a movie, but you are changing what restaurant and movie theater you are going to. Make it even better by choosing a theme. If you’re going to a romantic comedy, go out for Italian food. If you are going to a scary movie, go to a BBQ place (BBQ sauce on meat… Dead bodies… You get the idea right?).
2. Be Creative
If you are absolutely tired of dinner and a movie, think outside of the box! No one ever said that dating can only include food and a dark theater. There are plenty of other ways that you can show your date a good time. For example, you can go play laser tag, mini golf, take a day trip to a zoo or museum. There is no limit to the things that you can do for a fantastic date.
3. Dress Up
Plan a date where you have to dress in your nicest clothing. How is this fun? It gives both of you the opportunity to look your best for your partner and break away from the “Netflix and chill” rut that we sometimes fall into. You can take it a step further and arrange for a chauffeur to drive you around town while you go to a nice restaurant, see a musical/play/opera, visit a casino, or just go to upscale bars and have a few drinks. Not only will it be a decidedly adult-like date, but it will make you both feel sophisticated and classy.
4. Do Something Outdoorsy
Instead of relying on going somewhere for entertainment, do something outside. Go for a hike and pack a picnic. Go for a bike ride and stop by a local farm to pick your own fruit. You could plan a nature walk through the state forest or sit on the beach to watch the sunset. The world is full of fantastic places that you can take your date that isn’t inside a building. The best part is, some of these outdoor activities are free!