My friends and I were talking the other day about the factors to consider when choosing what to do for a first date. We concluded the importance of mutual interest obviously makes or breaks the experience. Do things you love and you will have a good time. Fun relaxing stuff allows for minimal pressure and definitely helps with the nerves and being your authentic self. Things to consider when you are choosing what to do on a first date include:

1. Activities:

Activities are a great way to bond in a genuine atmosphere. You can learn a lot about someone doing activities with them. You can learn important qualities about someone such as if they are cocky, coordinated, humble, strong, silly etc. What you choose to do can also influence how you project yourself as well. If you are not having fun but are really into the person, it could come off differently than you’d hope. Agree to do something you are both excited about doing and it is a guarantee that you will at least enjoy yourself.

2. Length:

Timing is a really important factor to consider. A three-hour hike with your friends is entirely different than a three-hour hike with someone you just met. It’s hard to say what the move is as far as timing goes, but sometimes shorter is sweeter for first dates. Always consider what you plan on doing and for how long. Short enough that it doesn't feel like it's dragged out, but long enough that it's not just small talk the entire time. Going out to a nice meal and drinks for two hours can be a lot more relaxing of an environment and allow you to get to know them better than a rigorous two-hour hike. And if it felt too short, then you know you want to spend more time with them and BOOM second date.

3. Physical exertion:

It’s always a smart move to do something that isn’t going to exhaust you to the point where you don’t have a good time. Being in over your head is not a good situation to put yourself in. Agreeing to surf when you’re not a strong swimmer could be a bad idea. Don’t agree to do something just to impress the person. Either way, bring snacks because snacks are awesome and essential to enjoying something tiring. Be true to yourself and your capabilities and they will like you for you if they are awesome.

4. Experience:

If you are nervous for your first date, is it best to do things you’ve done before and are comfortable doing. That will at least allow you to focus more on getting to know the person rather than how long until it's over and you are safe. On the other hand, it is so fun to try new things, just make sure you are not so far out of your comfort zone that you don’t enjoy yourself.

5. Food:

It is easy to bond over a mutual love for food, as well as a common love for a specific food. For example, I read online that, according to www.singlesinamerica.com, going out for sushi for a first date increases your chance of a second date by 170 percent. Not sure if that even an accurate percentage, but I believe it because I love sushi and sushi is the best food ever in the history of the world. Pretty much everywhere I read said that going out for food and drinks is the best idea for a first date. It is a great way to bond with someone over something but also have enough breaks in the conversation that awkward silences can be disguised as just chewing.

The best advice my friends have given me is to go out on a bunch of different types of first dates that hold your interest and see what works for you. If the person you are dating isn’t into the same things you are, then there’s your answer on whether a second date is even in the cards. There are so many awesome people out there, just stay true to your interests and yourself and everything will fall into place as it should.