How to tell if there is potential on a first date?

We tend to feel a bit of anxiety on a first date, but the key is not to overthink it. First dates are about getting to know someone new, so there will always be a bit of awkwardness.

If you were both able to laugh at the same things and had easy conversation, this is an excellent sign that the date went well!

1. You’re attracted to each other

You’ve both put your best foot forward by dressing up, showing up on time, and getting to know each other. But the truth is, you really can’t tell until the date is over whether you clicked.

Obviously, eye contact is a huge sign of attraction. If you both look deep into each other’s eyes and are able to hold that gaze throughout the entire conversation, that is one of the most surefire signs that there was potential chemistry on your first date.

Even more revealing is when she shows genuine interest in your life and listens intently to your answers. It also helps if she can empathize with you and make you feel safe enough to tell her your deepest secrets.

2. You’re comfortable with each other

The first date is bound to be a little awkward at times, but if you find yourself feeling more and more comfortable as the night goes on it’s a good sign. This is especially true if they are making you feel comfortable enough to be yourself and show them your most authentic self.

If you both share similar interests and can easily have a deep conversation, it’s another huge indicator that things are going well. You may also find yourself laughing at the same jokes and sharing a similar sense of humor, which is definitely a plus.

If your date is genuinely interested in learning more about you and wants to continue getting to know you, this is a clear sign that there is potential for something serious. Similarly, if they ask you about your own friends and family, it’s a sign that they want to include you in their circle right away.

3. You’re having a good time

When it comes to first dates, a lot is riding on the right amount of chemistry. But chemistry is more than just that tingling feeling you get all over your body. It’s also how much fun you’re having, and whether or not you enjoy spending time with someone.

For instance, if you both laugh at the same jokes or can find common ground in the things that make you laugh, it’s a good sign that there is potential for compatibility. Likewise, if you can tease each other in a light-hearted way without it getting too personal, that’s another sign of a good connection.

It’s also important to talk about the harder topics like family, friends, and beliefs. If you can discuss these things without getting too deep, that’s a good sign that your date is open to more candid conversations and wants to get to know you on a deeper level. However, if your date is unwilling to talk about these things or acts defensively when you bring them up, that’s not a great sign.

4. You’re genuinely interested in each other

While it’s certainly not a requirement, if your date is genuinely interested in getting to know you and seems to be open to the idea of taking things further, that’s a good sign. If she is asking you about your interests, family, and other aspects of your life, it’s a sign that she’s not just looking for a hookup but may be interested in a long-term relationship.

Even more telling is if she doesn’t shy away from touch on the first date, like lightly touching your arm or hand when walking past you or mirroring your body movements in some way. These physical cues are often signals that there’s chemistry, as long as it isn’t overly sexual.

In addition, if she doesn’t ask you questions about your job or other career-related topics but instead, inquires about what you do for a living and how you got to where you are now, that can be a positive sign that she’s a keeper.