{"id":235640,"date":"2025-08-01T18:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-01T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/herway.net\/?p=235640"},"modified":"2025-07-31T13:28:12","modified_gmt":"2025-07-31T11:28:12","slug":"signs-your-first-date-is-going-terribly-and-signs-its-going-surprisingly-well","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/signs-your-first-date-is-going-terribly-and-signs-its-going-surprisingly-well\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Signs Your First Date Is Going Terribly And 9 That It\u2019s Going Surprisingly Well"},"content":{"rendered":"

Sometimes it\u2019s obvious\u2026 and sometimes it\u2019s not. First dates are basically a mixed bag of hope, nerves, and the occasional red flag<\/strong> you only spot halfway through your overpriced appetizer. I\u2019ve been there\u2014suddenly questioning every life choice while someone tells you about their third CrossFit injury. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Or, on rare magical nights, you stumble into an easy, real connection that makes you want to text your best friend in all caps before you even get home. So how can you tell if this night is a dumpster fire<\/strong>\u2014or if it\u2019s quietly unfolding into something kind of amazing? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s break it down, one awkward pause and one laugh-out-loud moment at a time. Here\u2019s your no-nonsense, slightly dramatic, totally honest guide to 9 ways your first date might be tanking, and 9 little victories<\/strong> that mean it\u2019s actually going way better than you think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Long, Awkward Silences\u2014Cue the Crickets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Long,
\n \u00a9 Pond5<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s nothing like that moment when you run out of things to say and both of you just stare at the breadbasket.<\/a> Your mind races for literally any topic\u2014weather, pets, your embarrassing middle school phase\u2014but everything sounds painfully forced.

It\u2019s like someone pressed pause on the evening and you\u2019re both waiting for someone to hit play. You pick at your food, wondering if the silence is louder for you or for them.

The worst is when you try to fill the silence and it just lands with a thud. If you\u2019re counting the seconds until one of you finally blurts something\u2014anything\u2014it\u2019s not a vibe. Some silences are golden, but this one\u2019s just awkward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. The Self-Appointed Star of the Show<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"The
\n \u00a9 Brides<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Ever sat through a dinner where your date recites their life story, gym stats, and weekend plans with zero interest in your own?<\/a> You know every detail about their protein shake habits and last breakup, but they haven\u2019t even asked what you do for work.

It starts to feel like a podcast you never subscribed to. You try to jump in, adding your own stories, but they just circle back to themselves.

By dessert, you realize you could leave and they\u2019d barely notice. If you\u2019re more audience than participant, that\u2019s a clear sign this isn\u2019t your person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. The Phone Is Their Plus-One<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"The
\n \u00a9 The Today Show<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Few things kill the mood faster than a date glued to their phone.<\/a> Maybe it starts as a quick check, but soon it becomes a full-on texting session while you awkwardly sip your drink.

You try to make eye contact, but their gaze is locked on Instagram. You wonder if they\u2019re bored or just plain rude.

Either way, it makes you feel invisible. Unless there\u2019s an actual emergency, constant phone checking screams, “I\u2019d rather be anywhere else.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Interrogation Room Vibes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Interrogation
\n \u00a9 The Irish Sun<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Ever felt like you\u2019re at a job interview instead of a date? The questions come rapid-fire\u2014Where are you from? What do you do? What\u2019s your five-year plan?\u2014without even a smile to soften it.

No follow-up, no warmth, no laughter\u2014just tick-the-boxes energy. You answer, but there\u2019s no flow, just checklists.

If you start longing for a polygraph to complete the scene, it\u2019s safe to say the spark just isn\u2019t there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. The Ex Files\u2014They Bring Up Their Past Constantly<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"The
\n \u00a9 emlovz<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Si their ex keeps making a cameo every five minutes,<\/a> it\u2019s like you\u2019re on a date with a ghost. They casually drop stories about their last relationship, compare you to their ex, or worse\u2014complain about past drama.

It\u2019s impossible to feel seen when a third party (who\u2019s not even there) dominates the conversation. You\u2019re left wondering if they\u2019re even ready to date.

That ex is not just baggage\u2014it\u2019s a whole suitcase blocking your shot at a real connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Judgy Eyes and Snide Remarks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Judgy
\n \u00a9 Glamour<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The vibe goes from flirty to frosty when your date starts with the side-eyes or sneaky digs. Maybe they question your food choice or drop a backhanded compliment about your outfit.

Suddenly your confidence is on shaky ground. You replay their comments in your head, trying to decide if you\u2019re being sensitive or if they\u2019re actually rude.

If you feel smaller at the end of the night than when you walked in, trust that feeling\u2014kindness should never be optional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Your Escape Plan Is Already in Motion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Your
\n \u00a9 London Daily News<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You know it\u2019s bad when you\u2019re mentally plotting your exit before the salads even arrive. Maybe you send a secret SOS text to your friend or start rehearsing your \u201cearly morning meeting\u201d excuse.

Every glance at the clock stretches the night longer. You wonder how much longer you have to stay to be polite.

When you\u2019re yearning for freedom more than dessert, listen to your gut\u2014it rarely lies about these things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. The Laugh Drought\u2014Where\u2019s the Fun?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"The
\n \u00a9 Calm<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Primeras citas<\/a> should have at least a sprinkle of fun, even if it\u2019s just nervous giggles. But if every joke dies a slow death and no one cracks a smile, something\u2019s off.

You try your best story, but it falls flat. They barely muster a polite chuckle, or worse, just nod silently.

Chemistry\u2019s a no-show, and the night feels more like a chore than a chance at something new. If you\u2019re not having fun, why bother?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Rude to the Waitstaff (Or Anyone, Really)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Rude
\n \u00a9 EatingWell<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s almost nothing as telling as how someone treats strangers. If your date is dismissive, short, or downright rude to the server, it\u2019s an instant red light.<\/a>

Maybe they roll their eyes, snap their fingers, or blame the staff for a tiny mistake. It\u2019s uncomfortable and embarrassing.

If they can\u2019t show basic respect to others, chances are, they\u2019ll treat you the same way eventually. Kindness shows even when no one\u2019s watching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. Easy-Breezy Conversation Flow<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Easy-Breezy
\n \u00a9 Wondermind<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Sometimes, words just\u2026 work. Conversation bounces effortlessly, and you\u2019re surprised how quickly you go from talking about your favorite pizza to childhood memories.

You don\u2019t have to overthink your next line\u2014they\u2019re listening, and you\u2019re both genuinely interested. No awkward lulls, just a comfortable rhythm.

It feels like talking to a friend you\u2019ve known for ages. That\u2019s how you know it\u2019s got potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. Shared Giggling Fits\u2014The Best Icebreaker<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Shared
\n \u00a9 New Scientist<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re both cracking up over silly stories or inside jokes, you\u2019ve already won half the battle. There\u2019s nothing more attractive than someone who gets your humor.

The laughter is real, not forced. You find yourselves leaning in, sharing those little glances that say, \u201cDid you just say that?\u201d

By the end of the night, your cheeks hurt from smiling<\/a>\u2014and that\u2019s something worth texting your friends about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. Listening Like It Matters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Listening
\n \u00a9 Blue Ocean Strategy<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Some people wait for their turn to talk\u2014others actually listen. When your date asks thoughtful questions and remembers your answers, the difference is huge.

They circle back to something you mentioned earlier, or ask about your favorite things. You feel seen, not just heard.

That kind of curiosity is rare\u2014and gives you hope for date number two.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. Genuine Eye Contact, Zero Creeper Energy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Genuine
\n \u00a9 MindBodyGreen<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s a sweet spot between staring and glancing away. When someone looks at you\u2014not through you\u2014it feels good.

The eye contact is steady, never awkward or intense.<\/a> You both hold each other\u2019s gaze for just long enough to feel the spark.

It\u2019s a sign of comfort and interest, not just nerves. Sometimes, a look says more than words ever could.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. Time Slips Away\u2014Oops, It\u2019s Midnight!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Time
\n \u00a9 Adventures from Scratch<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You know those nights where you blink, and suddenly hours have passed? The restaurant is closing, your phone\u2019s buzzing, but you barely noticed.

No one\u2019s checking the clock because you\u2019re too caught up in stories and laughter. The world feels smaller, just for a little while.

You\u2019ll leave surprised at how fast the time went\u2014and secretly hoping for round two.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. They Remember the Little Things<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"They
\n \u00a9 Business Insider<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Ever mention your dog\u2019s quirky name or your love for pineapple pizza, then have your date bring it up later? That\u2019s a rare kind of attention.

You feel like your words actually matter, not just passing noise. They make you feel important in subtle, thoughtful ways.

It\u2019s those tiny details that make a date stand out long after it ends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. Comfortable Pauses\u2014No Pressure Required<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Comfortable
\n \u00a9 The Gottman Institute<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Not every second has to be filled. Sometimes, you just sit together, sipping your drinks, and it feels right.

There\u2019s no anxiety, no pressure to perform. The silence feels like a gentle pause, not a hard stop.

You\u2019re comfortable just being in the same space, and that\u2019s rare. It\u2019s a sign you can both be real, not just entertaining.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. Effortless Mentions of Next Time<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Effortless
\n \u00a9 Verywell Mind<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If \u201cnext time\u201d slips out naturally, you\u2019re onto something. Maybe you chat about that new brunch place or the movie you both want to see.

There\u2019s no awkward pause or overthinking. Neither of you hesitates to suggest more time together.

It\u2019s subtle, but it means the date didn\u2019t just go well\u2014it\u2019s worth repeating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. You Leave Lighter, Not Second-Guessing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"You
\n \u00a9 Science of People<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You step outside and feel lighter, not weighed down by doubts. There\u2019s no replaying awkward moments or wondering what you did wrong.

Instead, you\u2019re smiling, maybe humming a song, actually excited about the possibility of seeing them again. Your gut says this was different.

It might not be love at first sight, but it absolutely means something real happened.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Sometimes it\u2019s obvious\u2026 and sometimes it\u2019s not. First dates are basically a mixed bag of hope, nerves, and the occasional red flag you only spot halfway through your overpriced appetizer. I\u2019ve been there\u2014suddenly questioning every life choice while someone tells you about their third CrossFit injury. Or, on rare magical nights, you stumble into an…<\/p>","protected":false},"author":42,"featured_media":235639,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kadence_starter_templates_imported_post":false,"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[29648],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-235640","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dating-tips"],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":29648,"label":"dating tips"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/herway.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/9-Signs-Your-First-Date-Is-Going-Terribly-And-9-That-Its-Going-Surprisingly-Well-1024x532.jpg",1024,532,true],"author_info":{"display_name":"Selma June","author_link":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/author\/selmajune\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":29648,"name":"dating tips","slug":"dating-tips","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":29648,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Learn to date like a pro and avoid making some of the biggest mistakes in texting, flirting, winning a man's heart, and commitment. ","parent":29643,"count":442,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":29648,"category_count":442,"category_description":"Learn to date like a pro and avoid making some of the biggest mistakes in texting, flirting, winning a man's heart, and commitment. ","cat_name":"dating tips","category_nicename":"dating-tips","category_parent":29643}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/235640","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/42"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=235640"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/235640\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":235667,"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/235640\/revisions\/235667"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/235639"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=235640"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=235640"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/herway.net\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=235640"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}