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Dating can be a lot of fun! But there are also some downsides to putting yourself out there, like awkward conversations, or times when the other person doesn't show. Ouch!
Does it hurt when your date is a no-show?
Fear not! If you find yourself being stood up, there are ways to make it less painful and uncomfortable.
Am I Being Stood Up?
You have picked out a lovely restaurant. You arrive on time wearing your best outfit. However, your date is nowhere to be found. What do you do?
Don't panic and especially don't jump to conclusions.
For the first 10 minutes, give your date the benefit of doubt. They could have been stuck in traffic or had trouble finding the restaurant. It happens to the best of us!
After an initial 10 minute window, consider dropping a text message or giving a phone call to see if everything is okay.
The best way to approach the situation is in a calm manner with a bit of humor thrown in.
Quiz
It has been 10 minutes and your date hasn't shown up. Which of these text messages would you send?
Saying something like, "Is my calendar lying or were we on for 8?" is both clear and polite yet playful. Others sound disrespectful and show that you let your emotions get the best of you.
It's Official. You've Been Stood Up.
If your date is a no-show, don't take it personally! Maybe it wasn't because of you.
As hard as it might be, don't feel embarrassed. Situations like these come with the territory of dating.
Do's And Don'ts
TREAT YOURSELF/INDULGE IN SELF CARE:
Order your favorite meal, call your best friend or someone you can talk to vent out your emotions.
Photo by Brooke Lark on UnsplashSTAY POSITIVE ABOUT DATING:
Listen, c'est la vie! Sooner or later you will find a caring partner and thank yourself for not giving up.
STAND UP FOR YOURSELF:
If you are feeling salty about the no-show, you can drop a polite yet firm, one-off text message to communicate that you felt disrespected.
RESCHEDULE:
Trust your gut before giving someone a second chance. You will know if they are genuine in the last-minute cancellation, or if they are just taking you for a ride.
Photo by Jakob Owens on UnsplashCALL OR TEXT YOUR DATE INCESSANTLY:
Pestering someone is only going to make you look desperate or clingy. You might end up regretting rude or abusive voicemails.
Quiz
Your friend calls you because her date is no-show. She is upset. What would you tell her?
Showing that you care would be really comforting for your friend. Proposing to do something they like would uplift their mood! Trying to reschedule or calling again and again would put your friend in a sticky situation. Also, blaming them for something they are not responsible for could be extremely upsetting.
Did you know?
Take Action
Are you ready to go on another date?
This Byte has been authored by
Rasleen Kaur
L&D Specialist/Corporate ESL Trainer