First dates are really electric. Not necessarily because of the chemistry between the dates but more so because of the nervous energy. Men are jumpier than a bag of jellybeans and women, who can tell what’s going on in their heads? All in all, first dates can be stressing for both people.

There is always the possibility that the date will go uneventful with an amicable parting of ways without the possibility of a second date. It could be incompatibility or plain lack of spark. But before you go on and think an awesome first date is nothing more but a myth, think again.

1. Pull out all the stops.
This is a cardinal rule in first dates: look your best. Even if you are not in the mood, try to put your best foot forward. An evening can be determined by first impressions. If you’re a guy, changing into a nice clean shirt wouldn’t hurt and for women, a sexy black dress can spell the difference. Looking good is a must if you want an awesome first date.

2. Check your expectations at the front door.
This applies for both male and female. Don’t expect that you will be met at the door with a hot, red-blooded female or a guy bearing a gold and diamond bracelet. This is after all your getting-to-know-you stage. Approach the date with an anything-goes attitude and if you do get that sexy blonde or that bracelet, well and good.

3. Stop thinking long-term.
So you’re forty-two and your mom, aunt and grandmother is nagging you to get married already. It doesn’t mean that you can approach each date with a potential-husband-in-the-horizon mindset. Never ask questions like, “How many kids do you want?” or “Would you like a two-bedroom apartment in the city or a house in the suburbs?” That will leave your date “Check please!”

4. Fun and flirty.
Think fun and flirty. Great conversational topics include hobbies and interests. Don’t broach the subject of family squabbles, ex-girlfriends/ex boyfriends and work into the picture. It will not do anything but cloud the whole date. Also, a whiner is never a great date. Talk about your plans to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro or go scuba-diving in the Bahamas. Flirt your date a bit. Nobody can resist that combination.

5. Be yourself.
When on a first date, treat the whole evening with the hopes of gaining a new friend. If you have lots of things in common, that could mean a more lasting and meaningful relationship. Or it could just be that you will end up good friends. Be positive about the experience. Be sincere. And it may be quite a cliché but it also helps being yourself, at your best of course.