How to Avoid Blind Date Horror Stories

It's no secret that going on a blind date can be somewhat risky. In fact, just like Forrest Gump's box of chocolate, "you never know what you're going to get." We've all had them, at least once. Blind date horror stories are nothing new. Take, for example, the girl who is expecting her knight in shining armor, only instead gets a frumpy-looking balding surprise. Maybe it's the guy who wound up with the blind date from Hell. She looks good enough but won't shut up for five seconds or perhaps, she says nothing at all, unable to comprehend the most basic conversation. So how do you avoid blind date horror stories like these?

With some simple preparation beforehand, many of these messy situations can be easily avoided. For instance, should you find yourself on a blind date with someone that doesn't appeal to you, keep your cool. Even though you may not be physically attracted to the other person, you should still remain friendly. Remember, the other person might be just as turned off by you. Besides, you never know, instead of another blind date horror story, you might find yourself a genuine friend. When it comes to blind dates, keep your options open and remain open minded. The biggest mistake people make is forming an irrational mental image of the other person, which oftentimes leads to disappointment.

Another common mistake is deciding where to go and what to do on your blind date. Keep in mind that you don't know what you're going to end up with, so it may be in everyone's best interest to keep the first date short and sweet. Instead of going out to dinner or to a movie, where you're likely to spend at least an hour or two, plan to meet over a cup of coffee or during a lunch break. As safety is always an issue, you should set up an initial meeting in a well-lit, populated location. This way you can exit the date easier should it become an unsuitable or uncomfortable situation. While it is important to exercise caution anytime you're dating, it may be more important with blind dates. Even if you are being set up by a close friend or family member, you have to ask yourself how well they know this person. Therefore, it's probably a good idea to always let someone know where you are and with whom. In fact, ladies especially may want to consider having a friend come along.

Finally, be honest and make it clear from the start as to whether or not you want to see this person again. Never lead anyone on. It's one thing to be nice; it's another to be deceptive. Blind dates are never easy. Nothing much in life is. However, you should always try to make an honest effort to have a good time. If nothing else, you could find yourself with a new lifelong friend. Preparing yourself ahead of time with less expectations, shorter dates, and safety precautions can help you avoid common blind date horror stories.