Dating can be tough and first dates can be painful. Boy, do I remember! Ive been in a committed relationship for several years now, but I can still recall some of the disastrous first dates I had in the past.

Of course, the important thing is to be yourself and not to try too hard. I know, I know, easier said than done. And nerves are to be expected. But there are some positive ways to get through that first date and even to make it a resounding success.

Just follow this list of dating tips to start your dating experiences out the right way!

1. Meet your date out at the spot where your date will be and drive yourself there. That way, if you decide you want to bail out early on this first date, you won't be trapped. Also, if things do work out, you can completely avoid the issue of whether to invite your date in or not at your door. Also when you have your own car, there will be less need to worry about safety; for example, your date will not know where you live.
   
   

2. Keep the date simple and fairly short. That way, you won't lock yourself in to a long day or evening of multiple stages that you aren't enjoying. If things go well on this first date, you can always extend it by adding on more activities on the fly. Or you can just agree to repeat the experience the next day.
   
   

3. Be the one to end the date first. Leave them guessing and wanting more. There's no need to end the date abruptly or rudely; just make your excuses at a reasonable stopping point and then stick to it.
   
   

4. Dress carefully and conservatively for the first date. Remember, your first date knows very little about the person you are. He or she will take you at face value and you don't want to give the wrong impression before he or she has a chance to get to know you.
   
   

5. Wear clothing that you are comfortable and confident in. First dates are uncomfortable enough, without a tight belt biting you around the waist or a low cut top having to constantly be tugged up or pulled closed.
   
   

6. If you are planning the date, be specific about where you are going. This will make the date more comfortable for both of you, and will prevent the other person from wearing inappropriate dress for the planned activity/venue. Save the surprises for when you know each other better!
   
   

7. Ask lots of probing questions about your date to show your interest in him or her. The most interesting dates tend to be those who listen more than they talk about themselves. Great topics to start with are work, hobbies, sports, and family. For best results on this first date, I'd advise you to avoid discussing politics, religion, or any other controversial topics.
   
   

8. Go easy on the perfume or after shave. The point is to be alluring, but not offensive. And many people are allergic to scents, so be considerate.
   
   

9. Pay strict attention to your personal hygiene. Don't forget to brush your teeth and use mouthwash before you go out. Dab on the deodorant or antiperspirant spray. Clean/file your fingernails. Go all out... this IS the first date, after all!
   
   

10. If your date involves a meal or snack of some kind, don't order sloppy food. The last thing you want to do is drip your food all down your front or into your lap! If you are not paying for what you order, try to stay in the middle range of the menu. This is not the time to take advantage of your date.

Follow these 10 simple rules and your first date is much more likely to go well. So get out there... and have fun!