Second dates might not have the same amount of pressure as first ones, but they’re still a big deal. After all, you’re still vetting a potential partner and exploring a possible connection. Which begs the question: How do you know if someone’s worth a third date?
Contrary to popular opinion, the second date is a big one because it lets you know whether you might be a good match. But while this might sound like an arduous task, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tips and tricks, determining if you should go on a third date will be a breeze.
Allow me to introduce to you the 12 signs that mean they’re worthy of a third date. Thanks to these green flags, navigating the world of second dates is now effortless. Keep scrolling to learn more.
12 Signs They’re Worthy of a Third Date:
1. They plan a date that will help them get to know you better
While first dates are all about breaking the ice, second dates are for going a little deeper. So it’s a green flag if they plan an entirely different date that’ll help them get to know you better. Unlike dinner and movie, active second dates, like visiting a museum or botanical garden, remove an interview-like atmosphere and make it easier to get to know one another beyond the basics.
2. There’s a connection between the two of you
Chemistry fades, but connection lasts forever. While some people connect more easily than others, true connection can be built over time by practicing active listening and asking follow-up questions that help you fully understand someone. And since communication lies at the heart of connection, it’s always a good sign if someone does those things.
3. They bring up something from the first date
It’s easy to misremember or forget big or small details when your emotions are running high on a first date. So it’s a good sign if they bring up something from it. This means that they were truly paying attention to you and suggests they want to get to know you more.
4. They’re curious about you
If first dates are about breaking the ice, second dates are about curiosity. Instead of asking you how many siblings you have, your date should ask you about what they’d like to know more. If they want to know more about your job, they might ask you what a typical day at work looks like. Whatever the case may be, this is a green flag because it shows they’re genuinely curious and want to learn more about you.
5. They flirt more
It’s also a good sign if they flirt more on a second date. After all, you’re not pursuing a platonic relationship! Of course, they should still be respectful, but a light touch on your back, offering to hold your hand, or even ending the date with a kiss are all signs that they’re into you.
6. They’re open and honest
You don’t need to bare your souls to each other right off the bat, but being open and honest is a must. It’s a green flag if their body language remains relaxed and they don’t shy away from answering whatever questions you may have about them (within reason, of course). There’s a chance you might accidentally stumble onto a sensitive or triggering subject, but if that’s the case, they should let you know without going into too much detail. This demonstrates openness and honesty, which is how they should be during the date.
7. You have similar goals and values
They say opposites attract, but the stars will have a hard time aligning for two people with different goals and values. Goals typically refer to things you’re working toward, like marriage and career aspirations, while values influence how you look at the world, live your life, and spend your time; this often refers to things like family, career, religion, politics, etc. Although you and your date don’t have to be carbon copies of each other, it might be worth going on a third date if you share similar goals and values overall.
8. They go deeper but still respect your boundaries
Although second dates are all about going deeper than before, your date doesn’t need to know how many people you’ve slept with or what’s in your bank account. But if they’re able to learn more about you without crossing the line, take that as a good sign. This shows that they respect you and your boundaries, and will likely continue doing so in relationship.
9. They’re relaxed and put you at ease
Nothing’s worse than spending time with someone who drains you or puts you on edge. After all, a partner should make you feel at ease. And if they’re also relaxed and at ease, take that as a good sign.
10. They don’t talk about their ex
We all have exes, but a second date is not the time to bring up the past. It’s always a red flag when someone talks about their ex because it could mean they’re not fully over them or they’re bringing baggage into the relationship. Needless to say, if they avoid talking about their ex, they might be worth a third date.
11. They say they want to see you again
Playing hard to get is overrated—putting yourself out there is in. So, it’s a major green flag if they say they want to see you again. Not only does this show that they’re capable of being vulnerable, but it also means they want to pursue this connection further and see where it goes.
12. You feel good about the date afterward
Adrenaline crashes are very real, but you shouldn’t feel worse about the date once the excitement has worn off. If you do, that might be a red flag and something you should explore further. But on the flip side, if you feel good and excited about the possibility of seeing them again, you should absolutely pursue it and go on a third date. Anything can happen, and you’ll never know unless you try.
