One of the biggest reasons why first dates get so awkward is anxiety. According to Ella, theres so much pressure to perform. So in order to ease that anxiety, just take a deep breath. Relax. Silences are fine, he says.

Is it normal to feel awkward at the start of a relationship?

“Relationships tend to be awkward in the beginning because you are just getting to know the person,” Texas-based psychotherapist Richard E. “Therefore, the awkwardness comes from the desire to be accepted by a person of interest.” It can be awkward — and tiring.