
First dates can feel like walking a tightrope—exciting yet full of potential pitfalls. You want to make a great impression, but you also don’t want to say the wrong thing. Finding the balance between interesting conversation and keeping things light can be tricky, but it’s key to setting the stage for a memorable connection. So, let’s start with five topics you can bring up for a positive first impression.
Unexpected Guilty Pleasures

Do they secretly love reality TV dramas? Eat dessert before dinner? Still enjoy cartoons? Ask about their guilty pleasures and share yours, too. It makes conversations playful and personal. Plus, you might just bond over a shared love for terrible yet addictive shows.
Unique Skills Or Secret Talents

Everyone has their own quirky skills—whether it’s writing with both hands or whipping up a delicious meal from the simplest ingredients. Sharing these talents sparks fun, lighthearted conversation, and it’s even better if you can show them off right then and there.
Ridiculous “What If” Scenarios

“If you had to fight off one animal-sized insect, what would it be?” “Would you rather time travel to the past or the future?” These kinds of oddball hypotheticals spark creativity and show a fun (or serious) side of both people.
The Most Embarrassing Yet Hilarious Moments

Self-deprecating humor is endearing only if you use it in moderation. It’s good to share one or two cringeworthy but funny moments on your first date, like accidentally texting your dad instead of your best friend. More than two, and you might come out as careless.
A Well-Timed Compliment Can Work Magic

“You have great taste in music.” “That jacket is seriously cool.” “Your laugh is contagious.” Small, genuine compliments like these go a long way in making someone feel seen and appreciated. However, make sure you’re not overdoing it (and for the wrong reasons).
Now, let’s look at some moves and topics that you must avoid at all costs.
Making Assumptions About Them

Have you ever told someone stuff like this: “You look like someone who hates horror movies.” “I bet you’re a cat person.” “You seem like the type to love shopping.” Stop. Let them tell you who they are—don’t assume and announce it.
Talking Only About Yourself

If you spend 30 minutes explaining why your transformation or your skills are the best, congratulations—you just turned a date into a TED Talk the person never asked for. Conversation is a two-player game. If they’re not playing, you’re losing.
Complaining About Life

Constantly complaining about your job or your landlord can make your date feel like a therapy session—minus the payment. Nobody wants to hear non-stop negativity. Keep the conversation light and upbeat to keep things engaging.
The Ex-Files

It’s best not to mention your ex. Saying something like “My ex used to say that too” can quickly make things awkward. Keep the focus on the present and enjoy the moment. Talking about the past can easily kill the vibe and make things uncomfortable.
Oversharing Like You’re Writing a Memoir

Yes, vulnerability is important to create authentic connections—only when you start bonding with each other over time. So, avoid spilling your childhood traumas and life’s deepest troubles over first meets (skip it on Date#2 as well). A little mystery keeps things exciting.