5 ways to have a great first date, according to science
First dates don't have to be awkward
1. Talk about travel
In a study by Richard Wiseman, less than 9 percent of couples that talked movies wanted a second date vs 18 percent of couples that talked about travel.
Via Quirkology: How We Discover the Big Truths in Small Things.
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2. It's not just what you talk about, it's how you talk
Add to what they say and bounce the ball back. This is how to have smooth first date conversation. Avoid extremes in autonomy. Don't dominate, but don't be a non-contributor either.
Via Brain Trust: 93 Top Scientists Reveal Lab-Tested Secrets to Surfing, Dating, Dieting, Gambling, Growing Man-Eating Plants, and More!: "Accept your date's pass, redirect it slightly, and then return the ball— all with warmth and genuine interest in his or her responses. This acceptance and redirection is the push and pull that creates smoothness."
3. Share secrets
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Emotional, personal information exchange during first date conversation promotes powerful feelings of connection.
Via Sam Gosling's book, Snoop: What Your Stuff Says About You:
But how effective can this be, really? In under an hour it can create a connection stronger than a lifelong friendship. Via Click: The Magic of Instant Connections:
Read Aron's most effective questions here.
4. Choose controversial over dull every time
If all else fails, talk about abortions and STDs. Yeah, you heard me. Forcing people to discuss interesting but more controversial topics made for more enjoyable first date conversation.
Via Dan Ariely:
5. Ask about beer
Dating site OkCupid found one question that was the single best predictor of whether men or women would have sex on the first date:
“Do you like the taste of beer?”
Via OkCupid:
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