Everyone has experienced that time when the butterflies in your stomach flutter so vigorously that you feel unable to speak, never mind say anything coherent. Worrying about a first date is natural, but not being able to gain some control over your anxiety could destroy any chance of a second date.
There is nothing wrong with being anxious; in fact, it is a healthy reaction to experience nervousness when dating someone new. As long as you have some degree of control over your anxiety and do not let it render you mute, make you shake so much you are unable hold your coffee cup or spontaneously burst into tears, then it can be turned into a positive energy to enhance your date.
When meeting your date there is nothing wrong with stating that you are nervous, that the time spent messaging online was exciting and that now you are experiencing some anxiety as you meet in person. This will be seen as a compliment, that you are concerned about how the date will go and that you are keen to impress.
For those who suffer serious anxiety symptoms there are a few basic techniques that can be used to at least appear more confident and in control than you might feel. Take some deep breaths before you speak and talk a little more slowly than normal. Place your coat over your hands if they are trembling. Try and avoid having a drink before meeting, it might steel your nerves but could also give a wrong impression.
Displaying nervousness can be a positive factor in your date, so don’t fear it, embrace it.