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An Expert Gave Us 4 Tips for Overcoming Awkward Silence On the First Date

Don’t overthink it. Everyone is awkward and that’s okay.

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Let’s be honest: first dates are awkward. No matter how much you might enjoy the person’s company, the pressure of getting to know someone new—especially in a romantic setting—can be overwhelming.

But according to Jehan Rajendra, founder of Agilis, awkward silence often stems from overthinking rather than a lack of connection.

“People tend to overthink during a silence, assuming it means the date is not going well,” Jehan explains. “But with a slight shift in mindset and a few techniques, you can transform these moments into something positive.”

Here are four tips for turning awkward silence into opportunities for connection.

Curiosity can help fill the pauses between free-flowing conversations and banter. 

“If a silence descends, do not panic. Take a breath and ask something that genuinely interests you about the other person,” Jehan advises. “It could be about a hobby they mentioned, a recent........

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