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Two important steps should be followed before leaning in for the first kiss, says dating expert
As there are no do-overs for a first date, you may want to make a mental note of a dating expert’s advice on the appropriate way to “initiate physical touch.”
How you present yourself on the first date determines the possibility of a second, third, and more. Doing the right things at the wrong time, such as leaning in for a kiss or taking the girl to the movies, can ruin your chances of meeting a potential partner.
Appropriate way to initiate physical touch on first date
First dates can be tricky if you are new to dating or haven’t had IRL experiences to learn from your mistakes.
Although physical touch such as holding hands, hugging, or kissing is likely to happen when you meet a romantic interest for the first time, inappropriate touching, even if unintentional, can have unpleasant consequences.
Dating expert Gracie explains three important points to remember when you’re physically attracted to someone and want to make a move, without seeming creepy.
Breaking the ice
The decision to touch someone or not comes down to the shared chemistry. If the date is going well, the expert recommends starting with “level 1”, which is breaking the ice.
“Start off with more friendly touches to build a comfort level,” she says. This could be hugging the person when you meet them, helping them with their coat, or maybe even helping them out of their car.
When to get ‘more flirty’
If the sparks soon start flying between you two, Gracie says there’s no harm in getting “more flirty”. After all, you’re on a date.
If you are a guy on a date with a girl, she suggests “putting your hand on her lower back to guide her through crowds or through doors.”
A gentleman move – offering your hand to hold as you walk together or even playful nudging when something funny happens is acceptable.
When to go in for the kiss
Save this for the end of the date if you two are getting along well. The first kiss is one of the most memorable moments of a date as long as it’s mutual.
However, it’s important to be “respectful” of the lady’s decision while “reading her cues.” It’s best to end the date with a hug if the other party isn’t keen on kissing.
Gracie advises not to skip any levels and “building the comfort level as you gradually work your way up.”
