A new survey ranked the top three dating turn-offs for men and women . . . and they STRONGLY focus on what's coming out of your mouth.  The top three turn-offs for women are bad breath, body odor, and smoking.  The top three turn-offs for men are smoking, nagging, and bad breath.

So, if you want to completely RUIN your chances on a date, the best thing to do is skip the whole shower and deodorant thing.  Here are a few more:

1.  Body odor.

2.  Having no chemistry.

3.  Looking at other men/women.

4.  Being rude to a bartender or a waiter.

5.  Coming across like you're not interested.

6.  Hogging the conversation.

7.  Talking about your ex.

8.  Awkward silences.

9.  Texting during the date.

10.  Coming across as needy.

I am so glad I'm out of the dating scene.  I gotta remember to thank Husbando.  Maybe I'll make him a nice dinner.

Communication is important in relationships, but if you don't communicate well on a first date, you might not get a second.  And that doesn't just mean you have to have interesting stuff to say.  You also have to listen.

Here are five ways bad communication skills can derail a good date.

1.  Interrupting.  Even if you're agreeing about something, let the other person finish their thought before you jump in.  Obviously it's fine to nod or say a few words so they know you're listening.  Just don't hijack the conversation, or it'll come across like you care more about what YOU have to say.

2.  Steamrolling the Conversation.  Meaning, you don't let your date get a word in.  Again, it communicates that you think what YOU have to say is really interesting, but what they have to say ISN'T.   Remember, when you're on a date you should be getting to know each other.  So the time spent talking should be split evenly, especially if it's a FIRST date.  But some people just talk and talk when they get nervous.  So if you realize you're dominating the conversation, the best thing to do is start asking questions . . . then shut up and let them answer.

3.  Over-Thinking Your Responses.  As in, you're not really listening to what your date is saying, because you're too busy thinking about how you'll respond.  And that can make you seem detached from the conversation.  It's an easy habit to fall into, especially when you're nervous.  Just try to listen to everything they say, almost as if you have to repeat it back word-for-word.

4.  Acting Like a Know-It-All.  It's good to seem SMART.  But if you act arrogant or start presenting your opinions like they're facts, you'll seem pompous and closed-minded.  Plus, if you say something they don't agree with, they'll get defensive and the date will pretty much be ruined.  I cannot count the number of times I have rolled my eyes at a dude who will act like he's God's Gift.

5.  Story Matching. Which is when they tell a story, and you respond with a similar story.  That's okay in small doses, because it highlights how you're similar.   Just don't do it a lot, or you'll start making the date feel competitive rather than collaborative.  Again, if all else fails, ask questions and let them talk.

So now let's hear from you!  What are some of your dating dealbreakers? What are some of the things that turn you off someone you're dating (or if you're in a stable relationship, the things that USED to do it)?

Dealbreakingly yours,
Behka

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