Dating can be exciting, exhilarating – and terrifying. There are so many unknowns when you go on a date, it’s easy to let your imagination run away. But here’s the good news: the other person is probably feeling the exact same way. See, you two already have something in common!

A Case Of The Nerves

Ask any matchmaker and she’ll tell you that almost every single she works with gets nervous right before a first date. Most singles secretly hope that their date won’t pick up on how awkward or nervous they feel on the date.

Know that it’s completely normal and that chances are your date is just as nervous as you, if not more. Accept this as reality and realize that it’s only awkward for the first few minutes until you get more acquainted. Sometimes, people need a few minutes to warm up to new people, especially if they are the shy or introverted type. Let’s face it, meeting and trying to get to know someone for the first time is not an easy thing.

Overly Prepared

Some singles make the mistake of preparing too much for a blind date. Doing an online search prior to meeting someone is over-preparing and can cause you to focus on the search results and not the person. Instead, ask your matchmaker about your date’s interests and browse local headlines or what’s trending on social media for current event topics you can piggyback off of for value-added dating conversations. It’s okay to have a few talking points in mind to get the conversation flowing but it’s not okay to sound like you’re reading from a script.

Feeling Self-Conscious

Have you ever been tempted to cancel a date when you’ve spilled coffee on your shirt with no change of clothes or time to go home before a date?

Whether it’s a coffee stain, an uncomfortable outfit or a bad hair day, many singles quickly become self-conscious about what they look like to their dates. We’re here to tell you that your date will probably not notice because they’re too focused on how they are being perceived by you. Matchmakers warn singles to avoid drawing attention to their flaws on a first date as it will only magnify them (and the person probably wouldn’t have noticed the flaw at all until it was pointed out).

Nerves Showing

Do you have a tendency to fidget under pressure or when you’re feeling awkward or don’t know what to do with your hands?

Well, you aren’t the only one. It’s actually very common. Many singles tend to fidget during a blind date if they feel uncomfortable. Try to relax the best you can and be aware of your body language. When you catch yourself fidgeting, try pinching yourself as a signal to the rest of your body to cut it out.

Remember, dating should be fun. You’ll probably feel some mix of nervousness and excitement, but we promise that’s totally normal. Rest assured your date is feeling the same way, and it won’t be long before the two of you are lost in conversation.