Before we proceed, let us first take a moment of silence for our fellow bachelors who had fallen short of preparation for these crucial moments leading to their dating demise. Because yeah, dates can be fun and exciting, but they can also be VERY intimidating. One wrong move can ruin your night and, god forbid, your reputation. You know what they say about first impressions, right? (Yup, they last.)
But don’t panic—you don’t have to pretend to be someone you’re not just to impress your date; just be yourself…well, your well-groomed, nice-smelling, dapper, confident self. So before you head out the door and have your rendezvous, here are some dos and don’ts for getting ready for a date.
Tips for the Gentlemen: The Dos and Don’ts of Getting Ready for a Date
5. Set your mood to “Happy”
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DO crank up some pump-up jams in your playlist before you get ready—even better, bust out some sick moves while you’re at it! Lively music can instantly heighten your mood and rid yourself of the unwanted anxiety.
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DON’T start your pre-date ritual with a lethargic attitude. Overthinking about how your date will go, or how you will be assessed by the girl you’re going to meet, or any other stressful thoughts will not only drag your self-esteem down, but also give yourself the unnecessary pressure to make the date “perfect.” Ironically, the only way you can achieve “perfection” is by having genuine fun during the date, which you will not be able to do unless you turn the negativity around.
4. Eat the right stuff
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DO munch on a snack prior to the meet up. Even if your date involves eating out, a healthy and delicious pre-date treat will boost your energy and make you feel satiated, therefore avoiding the “hangry” version of you that might not be all that appealing to your date. Moreover, knowing that you chose to eat healthy makes you feel good about yourself, giving you the right amount of confidence you need.
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DON’T snack on foods that either bulge you up in the wrong place, stain your teeth, or might give you a “dragon breath” despite an intense tooth brush session, or even worse—give you gas. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
3. Sweat it out
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DO exercise before getting ready. A few sets of push ups or just a mile jog releases endorphins that will definitely make you feel happy. Working out boosts your self-image and makes you feel more confident and comfortable with your body and yourself, which will naturally show through during your date.
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DON’T forget to shower afterwards. Remember, dousing yourself with cologne is NEVER a substitute to a good ol’ fashioned bath.
2. Step up your shower game
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DO add on some special steps to your grooming routine. Now is the time to whip out your trusty body scrub that you only use about once a month (admit it guys), or be extra meticulous and attentive in styling your hair. Manscaping is also an option, if you’re up for it. And of course, a spritz of your signature perfume is always a sexy bonus.
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DON’T try a new skincare or grooming product within the day of your meet up just because it promises to “instantly whiten your skin upon application.” Never risk having to show up with a red and blotchy face during your date and just stick to the products you are used to.
1. Plan your attire, inside and out
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DO pick out your outfit beforehand. Otherwise, you might have to experience something in the lines of these: Thinking of wearing that polo that makes your pecs look impeccably defined? Oops, still in the laundry. How about those pants that show off your ASSets? Sorry, you forgot to bring it with you this week. Preparing your outfit a day or two before will save you from settling with a pair of sweatpants for a date at a Gala.
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DON’T underestimate the power of the underwear. Intimates can make or break your self-esteem, so pick out the one that you feel the sexiest and most comfortable in. And assuming that you followed the preceding guidelines, the date will most likely turn out great. Perhaps so great you might even get the chance to take her back to your place. A visually appealing pair of briefs will surely get her in the mood—as you might would, too.
The best of luck to all you lucky ones who managed to even get a date. Carpe diem!
