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Blind date safety rules: What you need to know before walking out the door

So you're going out for dinner with a guy you've never met. Jitters aside, what are some valuable dating rules to keep in mind? ELLE Canada gives you our best tips ...

By Jennifer Weatherhead

Watch your drink
"Never, ever leave your drink unattended," says Rosenblat. "Even if you are getting a good vibe. If you do leave it, simply order a new one."

Trust your gut feelings
Get the impression your date's there for a one-night hook-up? Chances are, you're right. “We often talk ourselves out of warning signs, only to regret it later,” says Rosenblat. Some warning signs could be rudeness, inappropriate comments, touching, or you just have nothing in common. If you start to feel uncomfortable, make your way out of the date as respectfully as possible.

The first minutes
First impressions are everything. You're able to tell a lot by someone within the first few moments of interaction. How they talk, what they say, how they say it and their body language can speak volumes. “In the first 10 minutes, you can get a sense of whether the individual is kind, considerate, confident, self-centred, reactive, egocentric, or controlling,” advises Rosenblat.

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Don't expect too much
Going in with expectations of meeting your soul mate or the man of your dreams can lead to disappointment. “Easy connection is great,” says Rosenblat about a first encounter. “Sparks, rare.” Go into it with plans to have fun and let things happen naturally.

Don't be a blind date hater
Even if one blind date doesn't go as planned, don't ban them from your dating options. “We've all gone to bad movies, dinners, vacations, parties, job interviews, but it shouldn't keep us from trying for something better in the future. Blind dates should be no different," says Rosenblat. "You can't win the jackpot if you're not playing the game!"

Related articles:
Single on the dating circuit
Quiz: What kind of sexy are you?
Moving in together (gulp!)




Rebecca Rosenblat (aka Dr. Date) is a Toronto-based Certified Relationship and Sexuality Therapist and has been working with couples for nearly 10 years. Visit www.drdate.com for more information.


1. What does he look like?
2. Watch your drink

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