20 Dating Tricks to Boost Confidence and Find Genuine Connections
New to dating or stepping back into the scene for the hundredth time? You cannot miss reading these 20 Dating Tricks. The dating world feels confusing at first, like jumping into cold, cloudy water. It takes patience to adjust, but once you do, excitement replaces hesitation.
Meeting someone from an app after months of conversation or going on a blind date set up by a friend can feel overwhelming. Dating means opening up, letting someone in, and facing the unknown. That alone makes people hesitate. Beyond emotions, practical concerns always come into play. Safety should never be an afterthought, from choosing a public location to securing reliable transportation. Physical risks exist, though rare, and planning ahead helps ease concerns. Dating comes with challenges, but with the right mindset and approach, it turns into a rewarding experience.
No More Crying
Years of personal experience, late-night conversations, and countless moments spent consoling friends, acquaintances, and even strangers have shaped these insights. Dating comes with highs and lows, and sometimes, it leaves people feeling frustrated, confused, or heartbroken. After witnessing the struggles firsthand and learning through trial and error, I have gathered these 20 Dating Tricks to help make the experience smoother, smarter, and safer.
These tips come in no specific order, and they are not strict rules. What works for one person may not work for another. Dating is deeply personal, and no two people follow the same path. Some will thrive in casual dating, while others seek deep, long-term connections. The key is to discover what works best for you without guilt or hesitation. Adapt, learn, and stay true to yourself throughout the process.
Use these tips as tools, not limitations. Take what resonates, adjust as needed, and leave behind anything that does not fit. Most importantly, always prioritize safety and emotional well-being. A fulfilling dating life starts with confidence, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn. Now, let’s dive into the tricks that can transform your dating experience.
20 Dating Tricks That Will Change the Way You Approach Love
1. There’s more to life and happiness than a relationship!
Wanting a relationship is natural, but making it the center of your world leads to disappointment. A partner should add to your happiness, not be your only source of it. People who obsess over finding love often overlook the importance of personal fulfillment, friendships, and individual growth. Desperation pushes potential partners away, while confidence and independence make you more attractive.
Before diving into dating, build a life that brings you joy. Pursue hobbies, strengthen friendships, and focus on personal goals. When you feel content on your own, you attract the right kind of people who complement your life rather than complete it. No relationship can fill an internal void, and relying on someone else for happiness creates unhealthy dynamics.
A fulfilling life makes dating more enjoyable. Instead of searching for someone to fix your loneliness, seek a partner who enhances your already meaningful life. Love should be a bonus, not a requirement for happiness. The right relationship will come when you are secure in yourself, not when you are searching for validation through someone else.
2. You Gotta Like Single You!
If you do not enjoy your own company, why would someone else? Confidence and self-acceptance attract people far more than insecurity. A relationship will not fix low self-esteem or an unfulfilling lifestyle. It is unfair to expect a partner to carry the weight of your happiness when that responsibility starts with you.
Instead of searching for someone to make life better, focus on making life better for yourself. Find hobbies that excite you, build a routine that makes you feel good, and surround yourself with supportive people. When you feel happy and secure on your own, dating becomes a way to share your joy rather than seek it. No one wants to date someone who depends on them for self-worth.
Loving single life does not mean giving up on relationships. It means you approach dating from a place of strength rather than desperation. A healthy relationship happens when two fulfilled people come together, not when one person hopes a partner will fill the gaps in their happiness. Become someone you enjoy spending time with, and the right person will want to join you.
3. Date yourself a bit! – 20 Dating Tricks
If planning a date feels overwhelming, start by taking yourself out. Learning how to enjoy your own company builds confidence and helps you understand what truly makes you happy. A great relationship begins with self-awareness, and dating yourself is the perfect way to explore that.
Try different activities to see what excites you. Go to a new restaurant, visit a museum, or take a solo trip to the movies. Pay attention to how you feel in different environments and what experiences bring you joy. Knowing your likes and limits makes it easier to plan dates that feel comfortable and enjoyable when you start seeing someone.
Dating yourself also removes pressure. You are not trying to impress anyone, just learning what works for you. It teaches independence and self-sufficiency, both of which make you more attractive to potential partners. A person who enjoys their own company radiates confidence, and confidence is one of the most appealing traits in dating.
Before jumping into the dating pool, spend time creating experiences that make you happy. When you know yourself well, you walk into every date with a sense of certainty, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable.
4. Dating isn’t about proving your worth to someone! (You already are worth it!)
Dating is not a competition where you have to prove you are good enough. You already are. The right person will appreciate you for who you are, not for how well you perform or impress them. Trying too hard to win someone over often leads to stress, insecurity, and exhaustion. A strong connection happens when both people feel comfortable being themselves.
Instead of treating dating like an audition, focus on finding someone who makes you feel at ease. A great relationship is built on mutual enjoyment, not forced effort. The best moments happen when you can do absolutely nothing together and still have a great time. If being with someone feels like work, they are probably not the right fit.
Confidence comes from knowing your worth is not tied to someone else’s approval. You deserve to be with a person who values you as you are, not someone who makes you feel like you have to earn their attention. The right relationship does not make you question yourself; it makes you feel seen, heard, and appreciated without conditions.
5. Stop worrying about being “rejected” for being “too fat”, “too short” or whatever!
Rejection happens to everyone, but it is never about being “too” anything. Attraction is personal, and just as you have your own preferences, others do too. Someone might pass on dating you, but that does not mean you are unworthy. You may have ended up rejecting them later for never having seen Pretty Woman or the latest DC movie. Compatibility is about finding the right fit, not forcing yourself to meet someone else’s ideal.
Everyone seeks different qualities in a partner. One person may love your sense of humor, while another might not connect with it. That does not make you less valuable. The right person will appreciate you for who you are, not for how well you fit an impossible mold. Instead of worrying about rejection, focus on being unapologetically yourself. Confidence is far more attractive than trying to change for someone else.
If you ever doubt your compatibility with someone, consider asking yourself, what is your dating personality type? Understanding your natural tendencies in relationships helps you embrace your strengths and find someone who truly aligns with you.
Rejection is redirection. Every “no” brings you closer to someone who genuinely wants what you bring to the table. The right connection will never make you feel like you have to prove your worth. Stay true to yourself, and the right person will recognize your value effortlessly.
6. When someone says “I’m too damaged” or “I have too much baggage”, believe them!
When a person tells you they are too damaged for a relationship, take their words at face value. This is not an invitation to prove them wrong or fix them. It is a warning. Many people ignore these statements, believing love can heal anything, but relationships built on rescue missions often lead to exhaustion, frustration, and heartbreak.
People struggling with personal issues need time to work on themselves, not a partner to carry their emotional weight. A healthy relationship requires two whole individuals, not one person constantly picking up the other’s broken pieces. If someone is telling you they are not in a good place, respect that and move forward.
It is not your job to be someone’s emotional savior. Love should be about mutual growth and support, not about repairing another person’s wounds. The right partner will come into your life when they are ready, just as you should be with someone who is emotionally available and capable of giving love in return. Listen when someone tells you they are not ready, and focus on finding a relationship that brings balance, not burden.
7. First dates are not interviews for marriage (Save that till you meet their mother)
A first date is about connection, not a life commitment. Walking into it with a checklist of marriage qualifications sucks the fun out of getting to know someone. When you treat a date like a high-stakes interview, you create pressure instead of chemistry. Relax, enjoy the moment, and focus on discovering if you genuinely like spending time together.
First impressions matter, but they do not tell the full story. People take time to open up, and a single date will not reveal everything about a person. Instead of overanalyzing every detail, let conversations flow naturally. Ask questions, but do not interrogate. A great connection grows over time, and forcing deep conversations too soon can overwhelm both of you.
Compatibility is important, but a first date is just a starting point. Save big discussions about marriage, kids, and long-term plans for when things become more serious. The best relationships come from genuine connections, not from forcing future expectations too soon. Give things time to develop, and let attraction and compatibility reveal themselves naturally.
8. Make the first few dates public and use separate transportation.
Early dates should take place in public spaces where both people feel comfortable and secure. Meeting in a crowded café, restaurant, or park provides a neutral setting that removes unnecessary pressure. It also ensures that if the connection is not there, either person can leave without awkwardness or discomfort.
Using separate transportation reinforces independence and personal boundaries. Relying on your date for a ride can create an unspoken obligation to stay longer than you want. If the date is going well, you can always extend the time. If it is not, having your own transportation allows you to leave without relying on someone else’s schedule.
Safety and comfort should always come first. Meeting in public and arriving separately prevents situations where one person might feel trapped or pressured. This is not about distrust but about being smart and cautious. A good match will respect your independence and your desire to take things at a comfortable pace.
9. Turn off your phone!
Nothing kills connection faster than a screen lighting up every few minutes. Checking notifications, replying to texts, or scrolling through social media sends the message that your date is not your priority. If you want real conversation and genuine chemistry, put your phone away and give the moment your full attention.
Opening up takes time and comfort. No one wants to compete with a glowing screen for attention. When you are fully present, you create space for real conversation, deeper eye contact, and meaningful moments. Silence the distractions, focus on the person in front of you, and let the interaction unfold naturally.
If you expect someone to open up, show them they have your attention. Keeping your phone out of sight signals respect and interest. The best connections happen when two people engage without interruptions. Whatever is happening on your phone can wait. Being fully present might turn a simple date into something unforgettable.
10. Avoid the “ex” conversations. – 20 Dating Tricks
Bringing up an ex on a date is one of the quickest ways to kill the mood. No one wants to feel like they are competing with someone from your past. Whether the relationship ended on good or bad terms, talking about it too soon shifts the focus away from getting to know each other.
An ex is in the past for a reason, so leave them there. If you spend too much time discussing a former partner, it can make your date wonder if you are still emotionally attached. Even if you mean no harm, constant references to an ex can create unnecessary tension. Focus on the present moment and the person sitting in front of you.
If the topic comes up naturally, keep it brief and neutral. There is a time and place for deeper conversations about past relationships, but the early stages of dating are about building something new, not reliving old stories. The less you bring up the past, the more space you create for something fresh and exciting to grow.
11. Action dates are best to start with!
Sitting across from each other at a restaurant can feel like an interview. Instead of sticking to the usual dinner or coffee date, try something more active. Movement naturally eases nerves, keeps the energy up, and sparks better conversations.
Most people spend their days sitting at a desk, so a date that gets you up and moving feels refreshing. Go for a walk in the park, visit a museum, try mini-golf, or explore a local food market. Shared experiences create natural talking points and help you connect without forcing conversation. When you are engaged in an activity, silences feel natural rather than awkward.
Action dates also reveal more about personality. You see how someone reacts to challenges, how they handle spontaneity, and how well you vibe in different situations. A person’s true self shines through when they are relaxed and having fun. Plus, movement releases endorphins, making the experience feel even more enjoyable.
Switching up the usual date routine adds excitement and helps create a stronger bond from the start. The best connections happen when you are both engaged, comfortable, and genuinely enjoying the moment.
12. Don’t be afraid to google!
In today’s world, a quick online search can provide valuable insight before meeting someone new. If you are about to go on a date with someone you have never met and have no mutual connections, a little research can help you avoid potential red flags.
Checking social media or a basic Google search is not about snooping, it is about ensuring your safety and getting a sense of who they are. You do not need to do a deep dive, but a quick look can reveal major red flags like a fake identity, troubling behavior, or inconsistencies in their story. A little effort upfront might save you from an awkward or even unsafe situation.
This does not mean you should judge someone solely by their online presence. People are more than their profiles, and social media only shows part of the picture. However, if you find something that makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts. Dating should be fun and exciting, not filled with unnecessary risks. A little caution goes a long way in making sure your experience is enjoyable and safe.
13. Limit the boozy beverages. – 20 Dating Tricks
A drink or two can take the edge off, but too much alcohol can turn a great date into a messy one. Having one before the date to calm your nerves and another to ease into conversation is fine, but always pace yourself. The goal is to stay present, in control, and fully engaged with the person in front of you.
Drinking too much can cloud your judgment, make conversations sloppy, and lead to decisions you might regret. It is easy to lose track of how much you are drinking when you are nervous or having fun, but staying mindful ensures you make the best impression. A clear head helps you gauge chemistry, pick up on red flags, and enjoy the moment without distractions.
Alcohol should enhance the experience, not take over. If your date is drinking heavily, take note of how it affects their behavior. Someone who relies on alcohol to loosen up may not be in the right mindset for a meaningful connection. Keep things light, fun, and in control. The best dates happen when both people are fully present, engaged, and making genuine connections without relying on liquid courage.
14. Eye gazing tells you a lot.
Eye contact is one of the most powerful ways to gauge attraction. Researchers have found that when someone is romantically interested, their gaze lingers on the face. When the feelings are more physical, their eyes tend to drift toward the body. Paying attention to where someone looks can reveal a lot about their intentions.
Strong eye contact builds connection, trust, and intimacy. If someone maintains steady eye contact while speaking and listening, it often means they are engaged and genuinely interested in getting to know you. On the other hand, if their focus shifts frequently away from your face or they avoid eye contact altogether, it might indicate nervousness, distraction, or a lack of real interest.
You can also use eye contact to deepen attraction. Holding someone’s gaze for a few extra seconds creates an unspoken connection and can even trigger feelings of excitement. If the energy feels right, let your eyes do some of the talking. However, balance is key. Too little eye contact can seem disinterested, while too much can come across as intense. Let it happen naturally, and pay attention to what their gaze is telling you in return.
15. $20 – 20 Dating Tricks
Carrying an extra $20 might seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference. While it may not cover your full ride home, it will get you $20 closer. Whether you need to grab a cab, hop on public transportation, or handle an unexpected situation, having backup cash gives you an extra layer of security.
Dates can be unpredictable. Maybe the night goes longer than expected, your phone dies, or you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation where you need to leave quickly. Relying entirely on digital payments or someone else to get you home is risky. A little cash tucked away in your wallet, purse, or even your shoe ensures that no matter what happens, you have options.
This habit is not just about safety but also about independence. Knowing you can get yourself home at any time gives you confidence and peace of mind. Even in today’s digital world, cash still comes in handy. Whether it is covering an emergency expense or tipping a driver, that $20 can be the difference between being stuck and getting where you need to go.
16. Say what you mean and mean what you say!
Empty promises and mixed signals make dating frustrating. If you say you are going to call, follow through. If you are not interested in seeing someone again, be honest instead of leading them on. Clarity and honesty go a long way in building trust and respect.
People appreciate directness. No one enjoys waiting for a call that never comes or wondering if someone actually meant what they said. If you are unsure about your feelings, it is better to communicate that rather than give false hope. Being upfront does not mean being harsh. You can be honest while still being kind and considerate.
Mixed messages create unnecessary confusion. Saying what you mean and following through shows maturity and emotional intelligence. It also sets a strong foundation for any relationship, whether casual or serious. Respecting someone’s time and feelings is just as important as physical attraction or shared interests. In dating, actions always speak louder than words. If you want to build real connections, be the person who keeps their word.
17. Don’t be afraid of the second date! – 20 Dating Tricks
First dates can be awkward. Nerves, expectations, and the pressure to make a great impression can sometimes get in the way of a real connection. Unless the first date was a complete disaster, giving the second one a chance can reveal more about the other person and yourself.
People are rarely their most authentic selves on a first date. Anxiety or self-consciousness can make someone seem distant, overly talkative, or even a little off. The second date removes some of that pressure, allowing both of you to relax and interact more naturally. Conversations flow easier, and chemistry becomes clearer when you are not caught up in first-date jitters.
A second date does not mean committing to anything long term. It simply gives you both another opportunity to see if there is something worth exploring. If the first date left you unsure but not completely uninterested, another meetup might provide the clarity you need. Some of the best relationships start with a slow burn, not instant fireworks. Keep an open mind and you might be surprised at what unfolds.
18. Consider pulling someone out of the “Friend Zone”.
Attraction is not always instant. Sometimes the best connections are the ones that grow over time. Friends are in your life for a reason, and there may be someone you have overlooked simply because you never considered them in a romantic way. Instead of always chasing something new, take a moment to consider whether someone already in your life could be the right fit.
Strong relationships are built on trust, shared experiences, and deep understanding. A friend who already knows your quirks, values, and interests could make an amazing partner. You already feel comfortable with them, and that foundation can make the transition into something more effortless and natural.
Romance does not have to start with fireworks. Many lasting relationships begin with a gradual shift in perspective. If there is a friend who makes you laugh, supports you, and understands you better than most, ask yourself why you have never considered them as more than a friend. Love can sometimes be hiding in plain sight, waiting for the right moment to be noticed. Some of the strongest couples started as friends, proving that real love is not just about passion but also about deep connection, trust, and shared values. If that is not #RelationshipGoals, what is?
19. No guilt for moving on!
Not every date will lead to a deep connection, and that is perfectly okay. If you do not feel anything special after the first, second, or even twelfth date, there is no obligation to force it. Chemistry cannot be manufactured, and staying in a situation that does not feel right benefits no one.
Letting go of something that is not working is not cruel; it is honest. Dragging things out because you feel bad only makes it harder for both people in the long run. The right relationship should feel natural, not like an obligation. If you find yourself making excuses to stay rather than genuinely wanting to, that is a sign it is time to walk away.
Moving on does not mean failure. It means you respect yourself and the other person enough to not waste time on something that lacks real potential. Not everyone is going to be a perfect fit, and that is the beauty of dating. Each experience brings clarity and gets you one step closer to finding the connection that truly feels right.
20. No games! – 20 Dating Tricks
Forget the outdated rules about waiting three days or 48 hours to call or text. Playing hard to get or following arbitrary dating timelines only creates unnecessary confusion. If you want to reach out, do it. Authenticity is far more attractive than calculated moves designed to create false mystery.
Games lead to misunderstandings and mixed signals. Clear, honest communication is the foundation of any strong relationship. If someone is genuinely interested, they will appreciate directness, not silence. The right person will not lose interest just because you responded too soon or showed enthusiasm. Confidence in expressing how you feel sets the tone for a healthy connection.
That being said, balance is key. Expressing interest is great, but coming on too strong can be overwhelming. Read the energy, respect boundaries, and avoid obsessive behavior. If someone is not reciprocating your efforts, step back and move forward. Relationships should develop naturally, without manipulation or forced delays.
Of course, not all games are bad. If you and your partner are into adult games you would like to play, that is a whole different story. The key is to keep dating fun, honest, and free of unnecessary mind games.
These 20 Dating Tricks Should Keep You Sane in the Wild World of Love
Dating can feel like trying to solve a puzzle where half the pieces are missing and the other half keep changing shape. It is messy, unpredictable, and sometimes downright exhausting. But that is also what makes it exciting. Every awkward first date, every unexpected connection, and even the ones that make you fake a phone call to escape all teach you something. The key is to approach it with confidence, self-respect, and a good sense of humor.
These 20 Dating Tricks are not a magic formula for finding “The One,” but they will help you navigate the dating world with a little more ease and a lot less stress. The most important thing? Stay true to yourself. No one wants to date a perfect version of you that does not actually exist. Let go of the games, stop overthinking every little detail, and just focus on having a good time. Love has a funny way of showing up when you are not desperately chasing it.
And if all else fails? At least you will have some great stories to tell your friends over drinks. Hopefully, ones that do not end with crying into a plate of fries at 2 a.m.
Author: Patrick Kriz- BA Psychology Human Sexuality
The wisdom of Patrick Kriz, a Psychology, Human Sexuality graduate. An articulate and educated expert, his writings enrich sexual wellness and lifestyle.
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