while going on that perfect date can be an incredible amount of fun, there are always going to be times when it seems like a lot of work. You had a long day and are tired out, and the last thing you want to do is meet someone new.

But if you start a date with an unenthusiastic attitude, there’s no reason to expect that it will go well. In order to have a successful night, you’ve got to be eager, enthusiastic, and ready to go. Which, after a long, hard day, is easier said than done. Need a little pick-me-up before heading out on a first date? Read on for a few great methods for improving your pre-date mindset.

Listen to loud, upbeat music. When you’re tired, music is one of the things that will be bound to perk you up most quickly. While you’re getting ready for your date, blast some fun, upbeat music on your iPod. Now, Norah Jones probably isn’t the best choice for a bit of pre-date cheer. Instead put on something upbeat, active, and exciting: The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, or Britney Spears. Whatever gets your motor running.

Give yourself a pep-talk. Pretend for a moment that you’re not you. You’re somebody outside yourself and you’re complaining about having to go out, or being tired, or not feeling up to a date. What do you say to that person? You tell them that they’ll have a great time as soon as they get there, and that there’s nothing to be worried about. Well, why not do the same for yourself? Pep yourself up for your date with some well-chosen words of encouragement.

Disconnect. If stress is the thing keeping you from being excited about your date, maybe you need a little disconnect before you leave the house. Take a short walk around the block and breathe deeply of the night air. Take a quiet moment and let your mind detach and relax. A few quiet moments will help make you feel more hopeful for the night ahead.

Hop in the shower. If you have time for even the quickest shower, take one. The smell of soap, the warm water, and the clean feeling you’ll be left with are wonderfully awakening and invigorating. You’ll feel like a fresh new person ready to face whatever may be ahead. Don’t have time to take a full shower? Than at least wash your face with some cool water and soap. It’ll make you feel like a new person.

Set goals. When you feel like going on a date is the last thing you want to do, the best way to psyche yourself up is to think about why you are interested in online dating in the first place. You want to meet someone to potentially settle down with, so keep that in mind always.

Envision success. If you envision your date to go bad, chances are you will subconsciously make it that way. If you are prepared to have the best date you have ever been on, you will do everything in your power to make it that way. You never know… if you imagine it hard enough, it may be exactly what happens. And if not, you’ll be better prepared to handle whatever comes your way.

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