Keep in mind that dating should be fun.  We all know how nervous we all get when we are on that first date with our prospective mates.  Trying to relax is the hard part because when you are getting ready for the date the momentum of the whole night builds.  Taking the pressure off yourself really makes a difference.  I firmly believe that most things that let you down in life are your own expectations.  So set out on the date with an open mind and have fun.  And keep in mind some of the tips below.  You never know they may make the difference.

• Never be late:  You really do only have one chance to make a First Impression.
   

• Leave the Cell phones and Pagers at home:  Unless this is a must or a necessity  just leave them at home.  I know I would find it quite rude if my date stopped to take a phone call.
   

• Don't be self absorbed:  You may feel the need to impress your date, but instead of talking about yourself, ask questions to get to know them.  Be genuinely interested in what they have to say.  That will be part of the emotional connection.  Ask open questions like "What do you like to do for excitement?".  These open questions will help you learn what makes your date tick.  Hopefully you share in some of these things.  People love to meet someone with common interests, or at least someone who seems genuinely interested.
   

• Stay positive: Nothing can be worse than a date that looks at everything "from the back end of a fence", instead of enjoying the moment for what it is.  Leave your baggage at home.  And... often overlooked..... smile!  A smile will warm your partner to you.
  
   

• Never talk about Ex.'s:  This is a really big turn off.  Being on that first date you are still making that first impression.  The person that you are with will begin to wonder what baggage you are carrying.  Now if a question is asked of you, about ex's, or your last serious relationship, etc... be sure to that your answers indicate you've closed your doors.  The questions might be just small talk, but are likely being asked to fish for information.  They are trying to find out what hassles or aggravations they will be in for.  If they hear the wrong answers, they'll "head for the hills."
   

• Be Yourself:  "Trying too hard to be something you're not" really does show through.  If you are "honest and true" first and foremost, your date will be a breeze.  And if there is not a second date, don't sweat it because that means that they were not "the one."  There are a lot more "fish in the sea" darling.
   

• Don't use foul language:  I think that is self explanatory.  This is a huge turn off.
   

• Dress to impress instead of baring the treasure before the hunt.  Being a little mysterious and holding back is a good thing.  Keeps the other person wondering what the treasure will be like instead of getting "the whole kit and kubotal" on the first date.  You do not want that other person knowing everything on date number one.  And with that being said:
   

• Always leave 'em coming back for more:  Don't push for sex on the first date.  Don't go all the way on the first date.  Part of the fun is "rounding the bases".  First base is fun.  Second base is fun.  Third base is an awesome mind blower.  Home plate (the infamous "home-run") will come soon enough.
   

Well these are a few things that should make a difference on any date.  Have fun!