Forget fancy dinners or trying to impress with expensive tickets. A leading relationship expert has pinpointed the surprisingly simple first date activity that dramatically increases your chances of a second rendezvous.
According to dating psychologist and behavioural researcher, Madeleine Mason Roantree, the ideal scenario for a first meeting is an activity that fosters natural conversation and shared experience without the pressure of constant eye contact.
The Winning Formula: Coffee and a Walk
Dr Mason Roantree, a contributor to the popular channel Pleased To Meet You, argues that the classic combination of grabbing a coffee and going for a walk is the ultimate first-date hack. This two-part approach successfully navigates the common pitfalls of early dating.
"The goal of a first date is to determine if there's enough chemistry and common ground to warrant a second one," she explains. "A coffee date is low investment, time-bound, and safe. If it's going well, you can seamlessly extend it into a walk."
Why This Date Works So Well
- Reduces Pressure: Unlike a formal dinner, a coffee date has a natural end point, making it less intimidating for both parties.
- Facilitates Conversation: The act of walking side-by-side can feel less intense than sitting directly opposite someone, allowing conversation to flow more naturally.
- Creates Shared Experience: Navigating your surroundings together can build a subtle sense of teamwork and shared adventure.
- Offers a Natural Extension: The transition from coffee to a walk is a low-stakes way to signal you're enjoying the date without the need for a verbal commitment.
Dr Mason Roantree advises against more elaborate first dates, such as cinema trips or expensive meals. "A movie means you can't talk, and a long dinner can feel like an interrogation if the conversation stalls," she notes. "The coffee-and-walk combo provides the perfect balance of structure and freedom."
So, if you're looking to make a genuine connection and significantly boost your odds of a 'yes' to date number two, it seems the secret isn't in your wallet, but in your walking shoes.
