If you’ve ever thought that shorter first dates are the best way to start a new connection, you’re not alone. Many believe that keeping it brief is the safer bet for first time dates. But here’s the surprising truth: longer dates can actually create a far more enjoyable, memorable experience. When there’s time to relax, get acquainted, and ease into each other’s company, the atmosphere naturally becomes more comfortable. Without the pressure of the clock ticking, you’re able to settle in, share laughs and create a space where getting to know each other feels genuine and effortless. Opting for a longer date for your first encounter is worth it, and it leads to a richer, more comfortable experience overall.

Short Dates

I understand that sometimes, the reason for those opting for a shorter date is due to first date nerves. Nerves often make people a bit more reserved or cautious; that’s just human nature. First date nerves are so common, especially where there’s excitement mixed with a touch of uncertainty. You may be full of jitters and anxious anticipation. I wrote about this in an article for The Good Client Guide a while back. With a shorter date, those nerves might last throughout the whole encounter because there’s pressure to make a good impression in such a short period of time. When there’s not enough time to get past them, one may be constantly aware of the time, making them feel rushed, or like the date is transactional. This makes it harder to truly connect and get past the first impression phase. Shorter dates can leave you stuck in surface-level small talk, something I absolutely abhor.

Longer Dates

Longer dates give you time to settle in, laugh off any initial nerves, and enjoy each other’s company without a time constraint. When there is time to relax, you can focus on sharing quality experiences together. There is room to breathe and let that initial nervousness fade away. As you both settle into the experience, those jitters transform into genuine comfort and familiarity. Both are more likely to show their authentic selves, revealing the little quirks, interests, and mannerisms that are unique. People’s true personalities tend to show only when they’re relaxed and given the time to open up. This kind of authenticity leads to a more meaningful and memorable encounter, and deeper connection. You may also find there is space to ease into a conversation, find mutual interests, and actually get to enjoy each other. Both individuals get the opportunity to show a fuller side of themselves. Spending more time together fosters deeper, more authentic conversations, allowing you both to truly understand each other’s character and compatibility.

There are also more options for fun activities to be had on longer dates! With this, there’s also the high possibility that both of you are likely to have a positive, memorable experience that stands out, setting the tone for future encounters.

Furthermore, trust cannot be rushed; it builds over time. We have to be patient and allow that time to pass to develop a sense of comfort with each other, which is especially valuable for first encounters. The more time you spend together in that initial encounter, the safer and more relaxed you begin to feel in each other’s company.

The Best Experiences Unfold Unrushed

Time is a luxury we’re always chasing. We wish for more hours in the day, more time to savour, to experience, to simply be. Yet, when given the choice, we often rush through the very things meant to be enjoyed. So let’s make the time. The most memorable moments aren’t hurried– they unfold naturally, effortlessly, with space to breathe. A lingering conversation over a perfectly poured glass of wine (tea for me 😉 ). The ease of connection when there’s no pressure to watch the clock. The quiet indulgence of being fully present. If we know time is fleeting, why not spend it well? Why not choose to indulge, to engage in the pleasure, to create something truly unforgettable? After all, the best experiences are never rushed.

Take the pressure off, book the longer date, relax, unwind, and rediscover what it means to feel truly alive! Why settle for less when you deserve everything?