Here’s What To Talk About On A First Date (& 7 Topics To Avoid)

When I think about what to discuss on a first date, my initial reaction is often to escape.

Who really has the energy to charm a complete stranger using cliché icebreakers and cheesy pick-up lines?

Fortunately, it doesn’t have to feel that overwhelming.

Having experienced a considerable number of uncomfortable first dates, I’ve learned a few tricks that can make the experience more enjoyable.

Let’s face it. Few experiences can match the anxiety of a first date.

There’s the tension of those awkward pauses, the pressure of light conversation, and the need to continually ask questions can feel exhausting.

That’s exactly why it’s vital to determine conversation topics beforehand. It allows you to present yourself well and not appear like an interrogator.

Dating professionals concur. To ease your nerves before a first date, having a strategy is essential.

And just to clarify, I’m not suggesting that you prepare binders filled with notes. Instead, focusing on a few significant topics can assist you in assessing mutual interests.

What might these significant topics be? I’ll share all that and more here.

You’ll find a list of reliable first date conversation starters, essential first date inquiries, and 7 topics to steer clear of if you aim to have a terrific first date.

Pay careful attention to these recommendations, and soon enough, you’ll be looking forward to your second date!

Also check out: 21 Indications Of A Successful First Date & How To ROCK The Second One

First Date Conversation Topics – Your Ultimate Guide

The discussion during a first date revolves around getting to know one another and discovering if there’s chemistry.

By using these helpful tips, you’re increasing your chances for a successful first date.

Don’t overcomplicate things (you’re in the same situation)

Whenever you start to feel anxious and think about canceling, remember that your date is most likely feeling the same way.

If you worry that they won’t take to you or that they aren’t ready for a kiss at the end of the night, chances are they are having similar doubts.

So take a breather, calm your mind, and consider the bigger picture. This could be someone who becomes significant in your life. You’ve got this!

Acknowledge that you’re a bit nervous (it’ll lighten the mood)

Admitting that you feel a bit nervous can really help to ease the atmosphere. It can bring a little humor to the situation, acknowledging that both of you are feeling a tad anxious and both of you are unsure of what’s next.

No stress. The quicker you dive into conversation, the sooner you’ll find it becoming more relaxed and perhaps even enjoyable!

Follow my pointers and check out the questions listed below, and everything will turn out all right.

Keep in mind you’re there to enjoy!

Your goal is to steer clear of feeling stressed, anxious, or nervous.

You’re there to have a great time, meet a potential match, and share lots of laughs throughout the evening.

When you find yourself overthinking things, take a moment to reset, remind yourself that it’s not as consequential as you might think, and toss out a humorous question.

See also: This Is Why It’s So AWESOME To Date An Introverted Girl

Approach the situation with self-assurance and a bright outlook

Your mindset makes a huge difference. If you head into it with a pessimistic outlook and prepare for failure, you’ll miss out on the opportunity.

So, put on that smile, turn up your favorite tunes as you get ready, and get set for an exciting night filled with fun experiences. The more positive your mindset, the more enjoyable it will be.

Be aware of how your body communicates

Avoid crossing your arms, glancing around the venue, showcasing boredom, or evading eye contact. Such negative gestures can create an unfavorable impression.

Maintain a comfortable demeanor, maintain eye contact during the conversation, nod in understanding, and don’t frequently shift your gaze elsewhere. This behavior conveys your engagement in what they are saying.

Lastly, inquire with thoughtful questions (and keep them coming)

At last, we arrive at the highlight. Posing queries is your ultimate strategy to bond and initiate delightful small talk and significant dialogue. And I’ve got the answers for you!

Below, you will uncover the most effective questions to pose that will indicate to your date that you’re intelligent, enjoyable, inventive, and attentive. Go for it!

See also: 100 Profound Questions To Ask Your Date If You Truly Want To Understand Them

120 Ultimate First Date Questions That Work Wonders

Here is the only list of first date questions you might ever need. Begin with the straightforward ones and transition to the humorous and charming ones as the evening unfolds.

With these conversation starters at your disposal, you will never find yourself wondering what to discuss on a first date again.

1. What activities do you enjoy the most during your leisure time?

2. What’s your ideal career, and do you ever envision going after it?

3. What are your top five all-time favorite TV shows?

4. How do you think your best friend would depict you, and what makes you think that?

5. If you had to choose only one book to keep for life, which would you pick and why?

6. What aspirations do you have on your bucket list that you wish to achieve in your lifetime?

7. Which family member tends to irritate you the most? (And feel free to share yours!)

8. Where is your favorite spot to retreat to when you crave solitude?

9. What are your go-to activities that instantly lift your spirits?

10. How would you describe yourself during your high school years?

11. What is the longest period you have binge-watched a Netflix series, and which one was that?

12. Can you share your social media username? (Playful!)

13. Have you experienced any strange or amusing situations on Tinder? If yes, would you like to share?

14. What instantly turns you off when it comes to a partner?

15. Would you choose a coffee shop over a bar?

16. What are your thoughts on online dating platforms? Have you ever found a partner through them?

17. Do you own any pets? If yes, what type and what are their names?

18. Who’s the most intriguing person you’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting?

19. Do you lean more towards staying indoors or enjoying the outdoors?

20. List your favorite alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages!

21. What have you been captivated by recently?

22. Is there a specific international cuisine you really enjoy, and what is it?

23. If you could select three individuals (anyone from around the globe) to accompany you to a deserted island, who would you take?

24. Do you favor mornings or nights?

25. Is there a type of food that you would decline to try under any circumstances?

26. How many siblings do you have? If you do, describe each one in three words!

27. Who is your favorite writer of all time?

28. Which movie do you consider your all-time favorite and how many times have you watched it?

29. What are you recognized for among your friends?

30. Which musical artist could you listen to endlessly without feeling bored?

31. How does your dream vacation appear?

32. Do you have any achievements you take pride in?

33. What is the most recent trend that has puzzled you?

34. What are your views on TikTok?

35. What’s the song you rely on for karaoke?

36. Can you share your most humorous and embarrassing life experiences?

37. What has been your most exciting adventure?

38. Which superpower would you like to hold for your entire lifetime?

39. What do you believe is something everyone ought to experience at least once?

40. If you were to choose one animated character for a date, who would it be?

41. What’s one thing you would never decline?

42. What are the most unusual interests you have that nobody really understands?

43. What’s the most unsettling dream you’ve experienced?

44. What’s the oddest joke you’ve come across?

45. How much time do you usually take to rise from bed in the morning?

46. What are your non-negotiables in relationships?

47. If you were a disc jockey, what would you choose as your name?

48. Do you possess any absurd fears?

49. Where’s the most bizarre location where you’ve had an intimate encounter?

50. Have you ever sent a text while inebriated, and what was the outcome?

51. Which beverage could you never fathom drinking again?

52. What is your go-to website?

53. How long have you managed to stay awake without a single wink of sleep?

54. If you could rewind time, where would you journey, who would you bring, and in which year?

55. Which celebrity do you think would be your best friend if given the chance?

56. What has been the most surprising turn of events in your life’s narrative?

57. Honestly, were you planning to reach out to me after this date?

58. How much social interaction feels excessive for you?

59. What’s your preferred mobile application?

60. Do you enjoy walking more, or do you prefer driving?

61. If you could choose to keep summer around all the time, would you do it?

62. What’s a guilty pleasure that you hide from others?

63. Is there a nickname that you truly dislike?

64. Which country do you feel compelled to visit, and which one would you avoid at all costs?

65. If you had the ability to speak any language fluently aside from English, which one would you select?

66. What’s the strangest altercation you’ve had with a sibling?

67. What was your most unforgettable summer experience?

68. Is there a common misconception people have about you?

69. What’s the most stunning view you’ve ever encountered?

70. Are you more of a solitary individual or do you thrive in group settings?

71. What’s your favorite ice cream flavor, and which one would you never want to try?

72. Are you someone who enjoys spontaneity? What’s the most impulsive act you’ve ever committed?

73. How proficient are you with technology?

74. In what ways have you evolved since your high school days?

75. What would your closest friend find most shocking about you?

76. Do you harbor any secrets?

77. Right at this moment, if you had the choice, where would you like to be?

78. Can you share the story of when you first met your best friend?

79. What was an insignificant decision that surprisingly altered your life’s course?

80. If given the chance, where would you relocate to, ensuring you have a fulfilling career and a comfortable lifestyle?

81. Do you have a quote or saying that you particularly cherish?

82. What’s the quirkiest talent you possess?

83. What’s the latest experience you’ve had for the first time?

84. If fame were to find you, what do you think it would be for?

85. Which would you prefer: being beautiful but lacking intelligence, or being average-looking yet highly intelligent?

86. How do you believe your parents would characterize you, and do you concur with their assessment?

87. What actions would you take if you stumbled upon a briefcase containing a million dollars?

88. If you had to pick one, would you choose skiing or swimming?

89. Who has been the most influential person in your life?

90. Aside from your job, where do you find yourself spending most of your time?