When you are getting ready for a first date, there are some very common feelings to have. The most natural of them all is being nervous. If you are meeting someone for the first time you want to set a great first impression which generally adds some pressure to your evening.

But no matter how eager you are to impress, there are red flags that you must be aware of when spending time with your date.  A first date is your opportunity to make a first impression, so it is important to be aware of habits, communication topics, or characteristics that could impact a potential relationship. Understand that people will be nervous and act differently when you first meet them, but be aware of red flags that you need to take seriously.

If you are getting ready to go on a first date, keep an eye out for these 10 things.

Your date chooses a bad location.

If you’re meeting for a first date and you’re expecting a nice steak dinner with an impressive bottle of wine, you’re not going to be thrilled with a dive bar, right?  If this doesn’t fit your style, your date might not be the one for you.

Your date is self-centered.

If you’ve sat down for dinner or drinks and your date is only talking about him or herself, this is a significant red flag. Your date should ask questions about you – your family, your career, and your hobbies, for example.

Your date treats people poorly.

One of the most important pieces of information to be aware of is how your date treats others. This may give you some insight into how you will be treated in the long-term. For example, do they treat waiters or staff well? Are they tipping well? If someone is rude to the waitstaff, this is a definite red flag.

Your date is overly negative.

If this relationship progresses to the next stage, you will want to ensure that you are with someone who is positive and up-lifting. A negative partner can drag you down over time. Be aware of what they are saying and the kind of words they are using.

Your date talks about an ex.

It’s inevitable in life – you will have relationships that succeed, and others that do not. But there’s a time and place to discuss failed relationships. If your date talks about an ex on the FIRST date, this could be a sign that he or she is not “over” said ex, per se. Stay clear.

Your date expresses too many personal issues.

Much like discussing an ex, talking about personal issues or challenges on a first date is a sign that your date might not be the person you want to start a relationship with. This person may just have too much baggage!

Your date doesn’t pay enough attention to you.

If you’ve spent an hour or two getting ready for your first date, and he or she doesn’t compliment your dress, hair, or features, let’s consider this an issue. Your date doesn’t have to fawn over you all night, but he or she can at least tell you that you look nice if you clearly took the time to get ready! Also…if your date is on the phone all night, run in the opposite direction ASAP.

Your date is politically incorrect.

Yes, there is a time and a place to discuss politics and religion. This is quite important once you’ve been in a relationship for awhile. But – not on the first date.

Your date has nothing in common with you.

If you’re an avid runner, you might want someone to go for a run with every once in a while. Or, if you love football or baseball, you might want someone who will go to a game with you during the season and who will watch sports with on television. If your date has nothing in common with you, it could be a sign that things aren’t going to work in the long run.

Your date has no ambition.

No career goals, hobbies or overall drive? If this is personally important to you, you may want to consider the fact that your date may not be the right person for you. This lack of lust for life will certainly seep its way into your relationship.

We love first dates here at ROVR. They are filled with so much promise and opportunity; yet, they can go downhill in a hurry if you aren’t careful. Consider these 10 red flags to keep an eye on while you embark on your next adventure.