Grooming - An Imperative Step
Some might take it for granted, some may obsess about it and
others may not give it nay a thought. Those, however, that are
on the receiving end will probably thank you if you do.
Cleanliness, some say is next to godliness, while others say
beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Either way, paying
attention to your grooming may be the deal breaker when it comes
to getting that second date.
When getting ready for the first date and that, oh so important
first impression, give some thought to your grooming. If you are
even entertaining the possibility of a second encounter, slow
down and pay attention. Most of us appreciate it when someone
obviously takes a little time making themselves look nice "for
us" and cares enough about themselves to have good grooming
habits.
Personally, I'm big on nice teeth and well groomed hands. Others
have their own little quirks about what constitutes good
grooming.
If you haven't gone out on a date in awhile or if you've been in
a relationship and let yourself go just a bit, pay attention;
close attention.
The easiest way, I think, to address this particular issue is to
simply travel from head to toe, or vice versa and take note.
Keep in mind that if you, in fact, are the type that might just
possibly find yourself unclothed at any time during your date;
you might just want to pay particular attention to the finest of
details.
Here are some tips...some obvious, some not so obvious:
1. Take a shower/bath. 2. Wash your hair. 3. Clean and clip your
fingernails and toenails (remember your cuticles). 4. Use a
washcloth or cotton swap and clean out those ears. 5. Use
deodorant. 6. Use body lotion, hand cream and foot cream. 7.
Brush your teeth, tongue (yes, your tongue) and use mouthwash.
8. Press your clothes, if they need it. 9. Polish or clean your
shoes.
If you're a guy, you might consider:
1. Trimming your nose and ear hairs (this might be the time to
invest in a trimmer). 2. Making sure your socks are clean and
match.
If you're a gal perhaps:
1. Give yourself (or get) a manicure and pedicure. Make sure
your nails are tidy. 2. Shave your legs, armpits and/or any
other areas that might need attending. 3. Pluck your eyebrows.
4. Don't overdo the makeup.
Might I also suggest that both men and women give your car a
good cleaning, inside and out? Don't overdo the fragrance, be it
cologne or perfume. Clean up your house if you think you might
be inviting (even if there's only a slim chance) your date in.
Set the mood ahead of time if you think you might get lucky;
candles, beverages, clean towels, clean toilet (I'm tellin' ya),
condoms etc. It's always better to be prepared for the
unexpected than to find yourself unprepared at all!
If you are unsure what might make a difference, ask a friend or
family member. If you think you might be interested in a second
go-around or you're in the market for a long term relationship,
you can't be too careful or attentive when it comes to the area
of grooming. Unfortunately when it comes to this, most people
(even those outspoken ones) will not tell you if your breath
stinks or if you have body odor. They won't mention that your
dirty car is atrocious, nor will they suggest that you wash
under your fingernails. They will, however, most likely notice
all of the above, and when you suggest "let's do this again
sometime", they will kindly shake their head and say, "no,
thanks". You won't know why and you won't understand.
Avoid this scenario and make yourself and your surroundings
presentable. What's that old saying? You only get one chance to
make a first impression. Make it one that works for you.