5 First Date Tips For Extroverts

Chances are, if you're an extrovert, you don't really need to let people know. While extroverted doesn't look the same on everyone, it's likely when meeting a new person that they'll be able to just sense it. There's something about the way a person who seeks energy outward carries themselves that can be hard to miss. Though it's important to say, extroverted doesn't always mean bright colors and dramatic hand gestures.

If you're an extrovert and you're getting ready for a first date, there are a few things you should keep in mind, even if it's not in your nature to worry about meeting new people. As you get older, it will become more and more clear that the "take me or leave me" mentality is a little bit more complicated than it sounds. Of course you should always be yourself, and of course you should only surround yourself with people you accept you as you are. But at the same time, it's important to be considerate of the people you interact with who might function differently. While the fact that your personality is larger than life might be one of the best things about you, it doesn't mean you can run people off the road with it. Just the same way that introverts have to be careful not to offend people by confusing their shyness with disinterest.

In short, it's important to be adaptable to a certain degree, especially when getting to know someone new, you want to make sure that you're leaving room for them to be themselves, too. If you're an extrovert, these are some things you should consider being aware of going into a first date:

Be A Good Listener

Though it might be your instinct to do all the talking, give your date a chance to get a word in. Make sure that when they're talking, you're putting just as much energy into listening as you would if you were speaking. Pay attention, stay engaged, and ask questions if you have them but try not to constantly interrupt your date when they have the mic.

Wait Your Turn

You get excited easily, so when your date is telling you a story and there's something you agree with, you'll have to try your best not to interrupt. Wait until your date has finished talking and then take your turn. It takes practice to bite your tongue but it's important to show you respect your date by letting them have their turn.

Pick A Quiet Place

The best place to get to know someone is not always going to be the most exciting place. Sure, you get your energy off large groups and loud music excites you, but this isn't just about you, it's about getting to know your date, too. So pick a place that's no full of loud noises and distractions. The best way to determine whether or not someone is for you is to actually be able to hear them when they speak, so think twice about a first date at a club or concert.

Ebb And Flow

Just because you don't get nervous when you meet new people, doesn't mean it's the same for your date. Assume they're a little bit nervous and assume they're a little bit reserved. Give them space to be themselves without overwhelming them with your confidence. Be yourself, but make sure that there is an even flow to the conversation and and equal flow of information being exchanged.

Relax

If your date isn't ready to put all of their cards on the table right away, that's OK. Give them some time to open up. Don't write people off just because they're not social superheroes like you are. If you've been respectful and you've been yourself, trust that you're doing your best and the right person for your will be responsive to it.

Images: Giphy, NBC