I think I went on a Practice Date with the wrong woman

fbj

Gold Member
Joined
Jul 10, 2014
Messages
16,248
Reaction score
2,398
Points
180
She responded to me on Coffee Meets Bagel and we recently met at a sports bar. I havent been on a date in 3 years and I just wanted some practice with someone who isnt my type. And she knows she dont get many opportunities because she brought me a gift to the date lol So i paid for dinner and we havent discussed seeing each other again and just talked on the phone. Then I started thinking that she will need childcare whenever she sees me since she has a 7 year old. So I dont want this woman arranging childcare to see me and she is not someone I would want to introduce to aa coworker or family. I just dont think that would be right and she is so nice and I just dont want to reject her. So I am going to have to come up with a way to not see her again without hurting her feelings. I also need to no longer respond to matches who have school age children. So yes I dont want her making childcare arrangements for me anymore and need to not make this mistake again.
 
She responded to me on Coffee Meets Bagel and we recently met at a sports bar. I havent been on a date in 3 years and I just wanted some practice with someone who isnt my type. And she knows she dont get many opportunities because she brought me a gift to the date lol So i paid for dinner and we havent discussed seeing each other again and just talked on the phone. Then I started thinking that she will need childcare whenever she sees me since she has a 7 year old. So I dont want this woman arranging childcare to see me and she is not someone I would want to introduce to aa coworker or family. I just dont think that would be right and she is so nice and I just dont want to reject her. So I am going to have to come up with a way to not see her again without hurting her feelings. I also need to no longer respond to matches who have school age children. So yes I dont want her making childcare arrangements for me anymore and need to not make this mistake again.
/----/ Here's a wild and crazy idea. Tell her the truth. I know, I know...but this way she won't think there is something wrong with her personality or looks. I bet she has already heard it before.
 
/----/ Here's a wild and crazy idea. Tell her the truth. I know, I know...but this way she won't think there is something wrong with her personality or looks. I bet she has already heard it before.
maybe I can make myself not dating material and say my FUNDS is low and cant meet no more until 1/28 lol
 
maybe I can make myself not dating material and say my FUNDS is low and cant meet no more until 1/28 lol
If you have not had a date in three years before that one, I'd say you've got making yourself not dating material very well covered.

In the unlikely event, this story is real, the lesson to learn is don't go on "practice dates" with women you don't want to go on dates with.
 
If you have not had a date in three years before that one, I'd say you've got making yourself not dating material very well covered.

In the unlikely event, this story is real, the lesson to learn is don't go on "practice dates" with women you don't want to go on dates with.
how else can I get practice so that I will be ready when I get a match with someone I really like
 
how else can I get practice so that I will be ready when I get a match with someone I really like
Next time why not tell the woman, "I dont think we are compatable, but could we go for dinner to give us both some practice in going out on a date?"

You could practice going on a date while also practicing being honest.
 
Next time why not tell the woman, "I dont think we are compatable, but could we go for dinner to give us both some practice in going out on a date?"

You could practice going on a date while also practicing being honest.
i dont mess up with someone who is a keeper
 
If you have not had a date in three years before that one, I'd say you've got making yourself not dating material very well covered.

In the unlikely event, this story is real, the lesson to learn is don't go on "practice dates" with women you don't want to go on dates with.
Yeah. You don’t really learn anything by going out with someone you don’t want to go out with in the first place.
 
how else can I get practice so that I will be ready when I get a match with someone I really like
/---/ Who told you that bilge? For crying out loud—you don't need to have a practice date -- just go on a date.
 
pretty women make nervous
1768411525898.webp
 
15th post
pretty women make nervous
/----/ Women's radar can pick up on that. They are attracted to confident men, not fraidy cats.
What I learned as a teen is that beautiful women often sit at home without dates because they intimidate regular guys. They are, in fact, easily approachable.

I never had that problem, so I don't know what to advise you so I asked Gemini:
Approaching someone you find attractive for the first time can be nerve-wracking, but the most successful approaches are often the simplest. The key is to move from a place of "trying to get a result" to simply being a friendly, social person.

Here are the most effective ways to approach a woman respectfully:

1. Read the "Green Lights"​

Before you even speak, look for signs that she is open to being approached. This prevents awkwardness for both of you.

  • Eye Contact: If she catches your eye and smiles or looks back a second time, it’s a strong signal.
  • Body Language: Open posture (arms uncrossed, facing toward the room) suggests she is socially receptive.
  • The "Headphone Rule": If she has headphones in, is deeply focused on a book, or is in a rush, respect her space and do not interrupt.

2. The "Situational" Opener​

Ditch the canned pickup lines. Instead, make a comment about the shared environment. It feels much more natural and less like a "sales pitch."

  • The Environment: "I've been waiting for this coffee for ten minutes—is the brew here usually this popular?"
  • A Tiny Favor: Ask for a small recommendation, like "I can't decide between the brownie or the cookie, what looks better to you?" Asking for a small favor can actually make people like you more.
  • Observe a Detail: Compliment something she chose, like her style, a book she’s holding, or a cool t-shirt, rather than her physical body.

3. Use the "5-Second Rule"​

Psychologically, the longer you wait to approach, the more your brain will "hijack" you with anxiety.

  • Move Quickly: Try to approach within five seconds of seeing her. This prevents you from overthinking and looking like you are "stalking" from afar.
  • Side Approach: Never approach from directly behind or head-on (which can feel aggressive). Walk up from the side so she sees you coming.


4. Keep it Brief and Respectful​

The goal of a first approach isn't to get a marriage proposal; it's to see if there is a "vibe."

  • State Your Purpose: If it’s a "cold" approach, it’s okay to be honest: "I know this is random, but I thought you were striking and wanted to say hi."
  • Offer Your Number: Instead of putting her on the spot by asking for her number, offer yours. It removes the pressure and lets her decide if she wants to reach out.
  • Since you're ready to try some openers, the best approach is to match the "vibe" of where you are. Here are a few low-pressure examples for common spots:

    The Coffee Shop / Cafe​

    This is a "low energy" environment. Keep your voice low and your approach casual.
    • The Recommendation: "I’m trying to branch out from my usual order. Is what you got any good, or should I stick to the basics?"
    • The Work Break: If she’s on a laptop: "I promise I'm not a spy, but I noticed your [sticker/wallpaper/program]. Are you a designer/writer/student?"
    • The "Seat" Opener: "Is anyone sitting here? Thanks. By the way, I love that book—have you reached the part where [minor plot point] yet?"
  • The Bookstore or Library​

    These are great because the books provide an automatic conversation starter.
    • The Section Comment: "I've been staring at this shelf for ten minutes. Do you have a favorite in this genre, or are we both lost?"
    • The Specific Book: "I’ve heard such mixed things about that author. What’s your verdict so far?"
  • The Gym​

    The gym is tricky because people are often in "the zone." Wait for the "in-between" moments (like the water fountain or walking to the exit).
    • The Shared Struggle: "That circuit looks brutal. Is it as tough as it looks?"
    • The Question: "I’ve been looking for a good [post-workout spot/protein brand]. Do you have a go-to around here?"
  • The Social Event (Bar, Gallery, Party)​

    Energy is higher here, so you can be a bit more direct.
    • The Simple Hello: "I realized if I didn’t come over and introduce myself, I’d probably regret it for the rest of the night. I’m [Your Name]."
    • The Event Comment: "This music is either great or terrible, and I can't decide which. What do you think?"

  • Three Quick Tips for Success:​

    1. The "Check-Out" Rule: If she gives short, one-word answers or doesn't look up from her phone/book, politely say, "Anyway, have a great day!" and walk away. Gracefully exiting makes you look confident, not rejected.
    2. Smile with your eyes: A genuine, relaxed smile makes you appear safe and approachable.
    3. Body Angle: Stand at a slight angle rather than squaring your shoulders directly at her; it feels less like a confrontation.
 
thats why I need to practice with a bunch of average with no school kids. Understand me?
You don't need to "practice," you need to stop being a freak and act like a normal human being.
 
/----/ Women's radar can pick up on that. They are attracted to confident men, not fraidy cats.
What I learned as a teen is that beautiful women often sit at home without dates because they intimidate regular guys. They are, in fact, easily approachable.

I never had that problem, so I don't know what to advise you so I asked Gemini:
Approaching someone you find attractive for the first time can be nerve-wracking, but the most successful approaches are often the simplest. The key is to move from a place of "trying to get a result" to simply being a friendly, social person.

Here are the most effective ways to approach a woman respectfully:

1. Read the "Green Lights"​

Before you even speak, look for signs that she is open to being approached. This prevents awkwardness for both of you.

  • Eye Contact: If she catches your eye and smiles or looks back a second time, it’s a strong signal.
  • Body Language: Open posture (arms uncrossed, facing toward the room) suggests she is socially receptive.
  • The "Headphone Rule": If she has headphones in, is deeply focused on a book, or is in a rush, respect her space and do not interrupt.

2. The "Situational" Opener​

Ditch the canned pickup lines. Instead, make a comment about the shared environment. It feels much more natural and less like a "sales pitch."

  • The Environment: "I've been waiting for this coffee for ten minutes—is the brew here usually this popular?"
  • A Tiny Favor: Ask for a small recommendation, like "I can't decide between the brownie or the cookie, what looks better to you?" Asking for a small favor can actually make people like you more.
  • Observe a Detail: Compliment something she chose, like her style, a book she’s holding, or a cool t-shirt, rather than her physical body.

3. Use the "5-Second Rule"​

Psychologically, the longer you wait to approach, the more your brain will "hijack" you with anxiety.

  • Move Quickly: Try to approach within five seconds of seeing her. This prevents you from overthinking and looking like you are "stalking" from afar.
  • Side Approach: Never approach from directly behind or head-on (which can feel aggressive). Walk up from the side so she sees you coming.

4. Keep it Brief and Respectful​

The goal of a first approach isn't to get a marriage proposal; it's to see if there is a "vibe."

  • State Your Purpose: If it’s a "cold" approach, it’s okay to be honest: "I know this is random, but I thought you were striking and wanted to say hi."
  • Offer Your Number: Instead of putting her on the spot by asking for her number, offer yours. It removes the pressure and lets her decide if she wants to reach out.
  • Since you're ready to try some openers, the best approach is to match the "vibe" of where you are. Here are a few low-pressure examples for common spots:

    The Coffee Shop / Cafe​

    This is a "low energy" environment. Keep your voice low and your approach casual.
    • The Recommendation: "I’m trying to branch out from my usual order. Is what you got any good, or should I stick to the basics?"
    • The Work Break: If she’s on a laptop: "I promise I'm not a spy, but I noticed your [sticker/wallpaper/program]. Are you a designer/writer/student?"
    • The "Seat" Opener: "Is anyone sitting here? Thanks. By the way, I love that book—have you reached the part where [minor plot point] yet?"
  • The Bookstore or Library​

    These are great because the books provide an automatic conversation starter.
    • The Section Comment: "I've been staring at this shelf for ten minutes. Do you have a favorite in this genre, or are we both lost?"
    • The Specific Book: "I’ve heard such mixed things about that author. What’s your verdict so far?"
  • The Gym​

    The gym is tricky because people are often in "the zone." Wait for the "in-between" moments (like the water fountain or walking to the exit).
    • The Shared Struggle: "That circuit looks brutal. Is it as tough as it looks?"
    • The Question: "I’ve been looking for a good [post-workout spot/protein brand]. Do you have a go-to around here?"
  • The Social Event (Bar, Gallery, Party)​

    Energy is higher here, so you can be a bit more direct.
    • The Simple Hello: "I realized if I didn’t come over and introduce myself, I’d probably regret it for the rest of the night. I’m [Your Name]."
    • The Event Comment: "This music is either great or terrible, and I can't decide which. What do you think?"

  • Three Quick Tips for Success:​

    1. The "Check-Out" Rule: If she gives short, one-word answers or doesn't look up from her phone/book, politely say, "Anyway, have a great day!" and walk away. Gracefully exiting makes you look confident, not rejected.
    2. Smile with your eyes: A genuine, relaxed smile makes you appear safe and approachable.
    3. Body Angle: Stand at a slight angle rather than squaring your shoulders directly at her; it feels less like a confrontation.
let me ask you this. I was walking down the street and a woman was coming toward me and once we past each other we made eye contact. Was I supposed to smile and say hello once we made eye contact?
 
let me ask you this. I was walking down the street and a woman was coming toward me and once we past each other we made eye contact. Was I supposed to smile and say hello once we made eye contact?
When did you arrive on planet earth?
 
Back
Top Bottom