How To Eat In Front Of Your Date

Studies show that sixty percent of women get nervous about eating in front of people, particularly new boyfriends. Even those who don't claim a phobia still admit to editing their plate on a date - in other words, not eating the same way they do alone, to reduce the risk of being ridiculed. 

It may sound strange that a task as simple as eating dinner could be so unnerving, but the truth is that there's a lot more to consider: the placement of hands, the timing of eating and talking, the mess factor, the awkwardness of chewing.  It's enough to make a girl go crazy sometimes.

If you're one of those people who would consider calling off a date all together if it meant not having to eat in front of a new boy toy, here are some tips on how to overcome your fear.

Eat ‘safe’
Choose meals that aren’t overly difficult to eat, both in texture and quantity. A big plate of hot wings or spaghetti is probably not your best bet to start out with. Foods like salads, sandwiches, cheeses, and/or anything that is thinly sliced and small in portion is a smart call. Steer clear of anything sloppy or crumbly. 

Small bites
The source of embarrassment often comes from eating too fast out of nervousness. Take small bites and pace yourself, enjoy the atmosphere and ambiance of the dinner rather than measuring the levels of anxiety you’re experiencing between courses. 

Eat in public more
Get in some good eating practice by going out for meals with friends and family members more often. Observe how other people eat and follow suit, mimicking table manner etiquette and eating habits until they feel fluid enough to be second nature to you no matter who you’re with. Exposure to various restaurants will also broaden your knowledge of what kind of establishments and  meals are most fitting for otherwise nerve wracking suggestions.

Focus on the conversation
Your phobia of eating in front of people is only perpetuated when you think about it constantly. Anticipating discomfort is not going to help you, so instead try to take your mind away from thinking of food as a chore and focus on engaging in conversation. The reality is that your date is not sitting there gawking, waiting for a noodle to fall on your lap or a bit of sauce to smear across your cheek. The only one obsessing is you. Remember that the activity is secondary to getting know the person.    

Share
Order a plate of fries or bread sticks to share. That will draw attention away from your eating and allow the both of you to partake from the same meal. It’s cute, fun, and takes the pressure off of your dinner performance. It also lets you sit in close proximity to each other and move around comfortably, as opposed to sitting far apart and stiff.

Also keep in mind that a sense of humor speaks volumes about your self-confidence. If you spill or drop a fork full of rice, so what? Don’t ignore it and apologize, make fun of yourself and let him see that you don’t always have to take yourself seriously. 

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Courtney Gilmour
		About the author:
		Courtney is a published writer, stand-up comic, and shameless Internet enthusiast. She holds a double bachelors degree in English Literature and Communication Media Studies, specializing in semiotic theory, however she doesn't get Shakespeare and has never won a game of Scrabble. Currently she lives in Toronto and works as a writer for WOMAN.CA.
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