So, you read Part 1 and understand that flirting doesn’t have to be creepy or performance art. And perhaps you even challenged yourself by smiling at someone a second longer last week.

But… it still feels awkward / weird / uncomfortable.

You’re on the right track!

This first date guide is for anyone who’s never had one, hasn’t had a good one, or hasn’t had one in a while.

Alright, let’s get this out of the way: first dates are awkward.

Expressing romantic interest can be nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be! This guide walks you through subtle and direct ways to show someone you’re interested while maintaining confidence, respecting boundaries, and handling rejection gracefully.

Online dating can feel like navigating a whole new world. The profiles are there, the matches are made, but then comes the big question: what do you say? How do you stand out in a sea of “Hey” and “What’s up?” Breaking the ice online requires a mix of creativity, thoughtfulness, and just the right amount of effort to spark a meaningful connection.

Ever felt like starting a conversation is as daunting as walking into a party wearing the wrong outfit? You’re not alone. Whether it’s a text to someone you’ve matched with or introducing yourself at a gathering, initiating a chat can bring up all sorts of anxiety. But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be genuine.

“Ghosting” is one of the most frustrating experiences in modern dating. You’re having a great conversation, maybe even planning a date, and then… nothing. Radio silence. No explanation. Just a void where there was once potential.

So, why does it happen?

It’s completely normal to want answers. We all want to make sense of what happens, especially when it feels personal.

But when the answers don’t come, it can leave you stuck, second-guessing yourself, and losing momentum.