7 reasons not to go on a second date

During the summer months, I can sometimes be quite jealous of my single friends. The grass is always greener on the other side, but still: that freedom has its charm. For a day, at least. After that, I want to go back to my beloved. During the last lockdown, I was happier than ever with my relationship. I felt for my single friends. Dating was really impossible. I was happy to help them with swiping (I'm not the worst), but at a certain point, the options just ran out. And what do you do then? I found it quite something.

Fortunately, the period of grim Vondelpark walks with glühwein is behind us, and we can meet again in restaurants and bars. I can imagine that it takes some getting used to, to date again after such a period. Personally, I don't have a ton of dating experience. After one date, I'm often already in love, and before I know it, I'm in a relationship. A vicious circle, you could say. Of course, I hope that I've found 'the one' now. It seems like such a hassle to have to date again. I don't even want to think about it.

I asked my friends about their most unpleasant dating experiences. Of course, I've had some bad dating experiences myself. With all this information, I've compiled a list of 7 reasons not to go on a second date.

1. You receive a Tikkie right after the date
I'm really not so old-fashioned that I think men should pay for everything, but I find nothing more unattractive than receiving a Tikkie. Splitting the bill is fine too, but decide that on the spot. My friend received a Tikkie after her date with the request to only pay it if she didn't want to go on a second date. Quite manipulative, actually. She transferred the money and never heard from him again.

2. Your date is only on his/her phone
Actually, I think your phone shouldn't even be on the table during a date, but well, you can always be called, and if it's important, you can take the call. But someone who is constantly texting or checking notifications in front of you is really awful. Especially uninterested. It becomes even more exhausting when someone mentions that he/she is incredibly busy at work. Then just go home.

3. Your date keeps talking about his/her ex
No one is waiting for this, of course. Personally, I find it the worst when someone is very negative about his/her ex. That says enough for me. Am I going to be the next one your date talks about like that? I'd rather not.

4. When your date orders something for both of you without consulting you
Someone who wants to take the lead right away: dreadful. Please just let me order my own food (and drinks). Such a type will most likely also want to decide what you will do on vacation. Make sure you get away from that.

5. When you catch your date doing bad manners
This can be anything: eating with an open mouth, shouting at the waiter, diving straight into politics, or just someone who breathes too loudly. In short: if you notice that you are getting increasingly irritated? Time to go.

6. When your date only talks about himself/herself
You better find out as soon as possible whether you're dealing with a charming narcissistic serial killer (obsessed with Ted Bundy). So be alert.

7. Your date has drunk way too much
I've experienced this from both sides. When you arrive somewhere drunk and can't quite find your words, that's not exactly the best first impression you can make. A little tipsy is okay, but hold yourself back a bit.