7 Ways to Avoid a Kiss on the First Date Nicely

7. Put a Gap in There

So you've had plenty of awkward moments on your first date and it's finally over. You are at your door and you know you don't want to kiss them. What do you do? Try to put some space between the two of you. The space should at least be an arms length of space. This is to prevent them from getting too close to you. If he keeps getting closer, step away further. If physical distance isn't enough, you might need to make up a quick excuse. This way, he or she will get the hint. For more on setting boundaries, check out Psychology Today's guide on personal space.

6. Avoid Looking into Each Other’s Eyes

You should avoid having long eye contact at the end of the date. Many people think the best way to go for that kiss is when the “stare down” happens. When it starts, take his attention to some place else. This way, you will not be looking at one another. Point to someone that is walking their dog, or wearing something strange, make a comment on the weather or something else that pops in your mind.

5. Attention to the Moon and Stars

When you are standing at the door during the night, whatever you do, do not mention the moon or the stars. Why? Because I have noticed that this is a type of cue to kiss. Directing attention to the moon and the stars and saying something like "Wow the night sky looks gorgeous" is a romantic gesture, so try to avoid this, no matter how pretty it is.

4. Don’t Linger at Your Front Door

If you are trying to avoid a kiss, you should try not to linger at the front door. If you are parting at a restaurant or at the movies, then try not to linger there before you leave. Be direct and forward. Tell them that you had a good time and it was nice to meet them. And if you think you want to go out with them on a second date, give a subtle hint and say "Maybe we should do this again". Whatever you do, do not linger. Instead, keep the energy friendly by offering a quick hug before you head inside. It could give them the idea that you want them to make the first move.

3. Offer a Hug

If you don't think it's time tokiss themyet, offer a friendly hug at the end of the night. When they start to go for the kiss, just extend your arms. When you are in the hug position, your heads will be side by side. This is not a comfortable kissing position. After the hug, it is time to say goodbye and leave. And it’s a polite way to set a boundary. You can also read about platonic boundaries on Healthline for more tips.

2. Offer Your Cheek Instead

When you see that they are about to kiss you, simply turn your head and offer your cheek instead. Maybe even do the "cheek to cheek" kiss. I'd be wary of this though because it may just give them the hope of a lip to lip kiss in the future. Definitely a dating blooperif you ask me.

1. Make up an Excuse

You could always make up an excuse and tell them that you do not want to get lipstick on him. Think of some excuses to not kiss someone that feel natural. Maybe you have chapped lips? Maybe you just do not think it is time to kiss because it is moving too fast. I am the type that just speaks my mind and if you are too, this is the best thing to do.

Avoiding a kiss at the end of a date is really not that hard to do. You just need to think in advance so that you know what you are going to do if the situation comes up. Have you ever been in this awkward position? How did you get out of it?