1. Keep it in perspective.

If it's going well, no problem, but if it isn't, remember it's just a date and it'll end. Make most of it.

2. Keep your expectations in line.

Consider possibilities rather than expectations, and you'll be more content with outcome.

3. Plan an activity.

You can focus on activity and won't have time for nerves. Go hiking, to an art museum, rodeo. You'll be busy focusing on other things and also have something to talk about next time.

4. Stay in moment.

This is a new relationship with all sorts of possiblities. Don't drag past into it. All your past relationships are over.

5. Stay optimistic.

Here are a few useful tips to get you going:

Tip 1 - Don’t talk about yourself until prompted to by other person. People who talk about themselves too much often come across as being boring and conceited.

Tip 2 - Introduce yourself properly early on. You make a good first impression and avoid embarrassment of having to ask later, or having to introduce your new friend to someone else not knowing their name.

Tip 3 - Use their name often. People respond well to sound of their own name. It also shows that you are listening to them and that you value their company and opinion.

Tip 4 - Ask open-ended questions. “What is your name?” or “ What is time?” are questions that require a specific and generally short answer. An open-ended question is one that does not require a specific answer, and prompts other person to continue or to tell you more. “In what way…” or “Why do you say…” and “When you said… did you mean…“ are examples. Open ended questions often use words like why or how, and not who, where or when.