5 Helpful Tips To Offer To Go Dutch On A Date

Navigating first dates can be awkward and uncertain due to unclear societal norms. While conventional expectations often lean towards the guy covering expenses, the trend of "going dutch" on a date is gaining popularity with changing times, and for valid reasons.

In case you're unfamiliar with the term, going dutch simply means that each individual pays for their own food and activities during a date. This approach involves splitting the expenses, avoiding the burden on one person. Although the concept seems straightforward, confusion still exists for many.

Determining when and how to go dutch on a date raises questions. Is it a standard practice for all first dates? Does it extend throughout the entire relationship? Should the bill be evenly split, or should each person pay for what they ordered?

The abundance of dating rules complicates the experience, shifting the focus from genuine connection to rule adherence. This inhibits the chance to truly understand each other on a deeper level, creating discomfort during what should be enjoyable first dates. Consequently, it's essential to reconsider and discard outdated societal norms that contribute to these discomforts.

Many of these traditional practices carry sexist undertones or are outright sexist. Embracing the concept of going dutch on a date aligns more closely with principles of feminism and equality. Abandoning these antiquated traditions not only makes dating more egalitarian but also fosters a more authentic and enjoyable experience for both individuals involved.

# Immediately address it

Avoid waiting until the last minute, as delaying may cause tension when expressing your preference to go dutch. Instead, bring it up right away. Inform the waiter or waitress promptly that you would like to split the bill. If your date questions it, calmly state that it's what makes you feel comfortable, a point that's hard to dispute and a straightforward way to broach the topic early on.

# Propose going dutch between activities

Suggesting to split expenses between different date activities might be a more easily understandable approach. For instance, if your plans include dinner and a movie, propose that your date covers the meal, and you handle the movie expenses. While not a precise 50/50 split, it's a compromise that may be more agreeable to those who might be put off by the idea of going dutch for the entire evening.

# Express your preference

Make it known that you would prefer to split the bill, emphasizing that it contributes to your happiness. Since your date is there to ensure a positive experience for you, expressing this preference increases the likelihood of agreement. Additionally, if they resist, they risk appearing unsupportive of your happiness.

# Keep it low-key

Avoid making a big fuss about it, as doing so may make your date uncomfortable. If you treat it casually, just mentioning your desire to go dutch without making it a significant topic, your date is more likely to see it as a non-issue and agree without feeling pressured.

# Don't insist if they want to pay

If your date insists on covering the expenses, avoid a confrontation. While you can politely reiterate your preference to split the bill a couple of times, it's important not to engage in a heated argument. Pressuring them to conform may lead to an awkward situation, and it's generally better to gracefully accept their choice to pay, avoiding unnecessary discomfort during the date.