7 Dating Pitfalls That Can Drive Your Date Away

Whether you had a one-night stand that led to more, a first date or have been on a few dates; the beginning phase of dating is not easy. The bond is new and fragile. And that is perfectly normal, because it is simply impossible to know someone well after a few dates. This is what makes the beginning phase so difficult.

You’ve had that first date(s), but you know, that’s just the starting signal. The real adventure is just beginning. Even though you’re already past the very beginning, there are still thousands of mistakes you can make that will ruin it. No matter how hard you try, there are always a few common pitfalls that can end your dating career prematurely.

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17 Dating Pitfalls That Can Drive Your Date Away

There are no hard and fast rules that you have to follow in the dating stage. But if you’re not careful, you can make mistakes that you really want to avoid. Here are the common pitfalls in the early stages of dating.

1. Just texting

WhatsApp is a great way to stay in touch. But let’s be honest, it’s not exactly the most personal way to communicate with someone. So don’t use those WhatsApp messages as an excuse to avoid asking difficult questions or expressing your emotions. Nothing beats hearing each other’s voices. Your voice can convey so much more nuance and emotion than a simple text message.

2. Overdoing it with messages

Now that you’re dating, you might want to chat with your crush all day long. But you know what? Too much is bad. If you’re constantly texting, it can quickly come across as desperate. Sure, you’re excited, but you don’t want your date to feel overwhelmed by your messages, right?

3. Sending too few messages

Yes, we get it, you don’t want to give it all away right away. But you know what else you shouldn’t do? Not texting enough to that special someone. After those first few dates, you don’t have to cut back on texting. Waiting too long to respond can give the impression that you’re not really that interested. And that’s not the message you want to send.

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4. Going too fast

After that first date, it feels like you’ve known each other for years? That’s great. But that doesn’t mean you should immediately start exploring the world together. Even if you’ve been intimate, that doesn’t mean you should immediately introduce each other to the in-laws . Take your time to really get to know each other before taking any further steps.

5. Ignoring your intuition

In the early stages of dating, the future is often unclear. If you doubt your feelings for the other person or if you think something is not quite right, don’t ignore that intuition. Listen to your inner voice and consider whether these doubts are justified. It can save you a lot of time and heartache.

6. Not communicating expectations

Expectations can make or break a relationship. Talk openly with your date about what you expect and what you are looking for in a relationship. It prevents misunderstandings and ensures that you do not waste time on people who do not fit with what you want.

7. Too little personal contact

Yes, life is busy with work, friends, family, and hobbies. But if you are really interested in someone, make time to see each other in person. Even if your schedule is full, you can always find an hour somewhere. If you don’t, the other person may start to doubt your intentions and wonder if you are really interested.

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8. Talking too much about exes

It’s understandable that you want to share your romantic past, but be careful not to get caught up in a marathon of ex stories. Your date is interested in you, not in your past love affairs. Keep the present in mind and avoid an overdose of ex memories.

9. Sharing too much personal information too quickly

Honesty is important in a relationship. However, that doesn’t mean you have to spill your deepest secrets on first dates. Build a little mystery and give your date the chance to keep discovering you. Remember, a little excitement can keep the spark alive.

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10. Constantly on your phone

The modern age has blessed (or cursed) us with smartphones, but don’t let them take over your date night. Constantly scrolling through your social media or answering texts while your date is sitting across from you is a total turn-off. Maybe later, but not now. Give your date the attention they deserve and put that device away for a while.

11. Being late for dates

Show that you respect your date’s time by showing up on time. Being late gives the impression that you are not really interested or that you did not make an effort to be on time. Punctuality is a sign of respect and care.

12. Overdoing it with compliments

Of course you want to let your date know that you think he or she is super cute, but don’t overdo it with compliments. It can quickly come across as forced and insincere. Ever heard of love bombing ? Avoid being labeled as such a manipulative case. Be sincere and save those superlatives for special moments.

13. Making inappropriate jokes

A sense of humor is great, but remember that not all jokes are appropriate on a date. Avoid making offensive or hurtful comments that could hurt your date. Since you don’t know each other well yet, always be careful with jokes. A good laugh is great, but not if it hurts someone’s feelings.

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14. Talking about commitment too soon

Sure, it’s nice to know where you stand, but if you start talking about making it “official” after the first date, it can be overwhelming. Give the relationship time to grow and develop a bond before you play the commitment card.

15. Overdoing it with gifts

Gifts are sweet. But overly generous gifts can make your date feel like they owe you something. Not helpful. Keep the gifts appropriate to the stage of the relationship and show that you care without going overboard.

16. Showing too little initiative

If you are really interested, show initiative. Don’t always wait for the other person to take the lead. Take the initiative for a date or surprise every now and then to show that you are involved. This is expected of you.

17. Getting physical too quickly

Chemistry is great, but don’t rush into physical intimacy if your date isn’t ready for it. Respect each other’s boundaries, give it time, and build the connection in a respectful way.

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