First dates are definitely anxious, frightening and full of expectations. But it goes beyond small talk; the success of your date depends on a number of other things, such as what you decide to do. “To build chemistry is to get more vulnerable and show more parts of yourself to see if that energy is there. You can’t force chemistry but you can provide better chances it will grow by doing dynamic dates. Not static dates where you just meet at a restaurant or bar and sit and drink/eat/talk” says dating coach and relationship expert Talia Koren in her recent Instagram post.
She added, “Doing more dynamic dates is so important if you feel someone is a great match but you’re “just not feeling the connection.” Always give it 3 dates to give that connection a little time to grow before deciding to cut it off if you enjoy their presence enough. Just make sure one of those dates is not just drinks and dinner.” (Also read: 6 effective tips for problem-solving in relationships )
Talia further shared a few creative date ideas for building chemistry
1. The traveling date
Meet at a bar or restaurant, enjoy drinks/food, then go to another spot. Dates where you “travel” between two spots tend to have a different energy, you’re exploring together, maybe being spontaneous and it feels more exciting.
2. The show date
Get drinks/food then go to a comedy show or see live music. Storytelling shows are great too. Getting a drink or food after is also a good option. This helps build chemistry because you’re making a memory together and experiencing something new.
3. The movement date
You’ll have more success with building chemistry if you get some endorphins going! Go for a walk, hike, bike ride or try a yoga class together. Get a bite to eat afterwards. Again, you’re also making memories together with this type of date.
4. The cultural date
Do something touristy in your town, check out a museum, new exhibit or do something related to either one of your cultural backgrounds. This date idea is great if you’re more of an introvert and don’t want to talk the entire time, but there’s still a lot to talk about when you get food afterwards.
5. Get out of your comfort zone date
Ready to build some crazy chemistry and laugh together? Try something totally new or something you’re learning. Like bouldering, doing a paint and wine night or dropping into an improv class. This type of date will get you both out of your comfort zone and have a good laugh together.
6. The competition date
A little competition can be great for building chemistry. Go to a bar with ping pong, pool tables or maybe an arcade and play games. Board game bars are good for this too. The winner buys the loser a drink.
7. Cooking together
Cook something new together and see how you work as a team. Being in the kitchen serves as a great venue for talking about family traditions, food growing up, lifestyle habits and more.