So, the first date didn’t go quite how it had played out in your head. Now you’re feeling confused, embarrassed, and anxious. Relax! We’re all human and we’re all going to encounter the not-so-perfect date at some point. Here are some ways you can recover from a bad date.

Take a deep breath

Simply taking a step back and thinking through what happened can help put things in perspective. Chances are it’s not a bad as you think. And if it is, then you have a good story to tell. Evaluating what happened can help you determine if it’s something that can be fixed.

Review what happened

Think through why the date didn’t work. Was it lack of compatibility? Was your date late? Did you have food between your teeth the rest of the night? If it was a compatibility issue, it’s a good thing you found out early. If your date was late, that’s something that could be discussed and fixed for future dates. If you had food in your teeth, just laugh it off. It happens to the best of us!

Own it

If you were the one that caused the date to take a wrong turn, own it. Apologize if it’s something big such as an insensitive comment or being distracted by your phone. If something embarrassing happens or you catch yourself saying something awkward, then deal with it head on and talk about it. Don’t ignore it, simply acknowledge that it was embarrassing. Your date is probably just as nervous as you are, and it will likely be a relief and a way to lighten the mood.

Don’t beat yourself up

You may start blaming yourself for a date gone bad. Remember sometimes it’s just a matter of no chemistry existing between two people. That’s neither your fault nor theirs. It’s something that happens so don’t take it personally. We are all perfectly imperfect so it’s time to let go of unrealistic expectations.

Try again

As much as you want to crawl under a rock and stay there forever after a bad date, don’t go into hiding. If you like the person and want a second chance, say so! What do you have to lose? If not, don’t let this experience put a damper on your outlook. Give it some time and the dust will settle. Your next date could be just what you’re both looking for.

First date jitters can get the best of us. Don’t let a little mishap ruin what could potentially turn into a wonderful relationship.

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