Your first date might get awkward as Mr. or Ms. Mocha may tend to have strong opinions about many things. There might be some rigidity or inflexibility in his or her personality. However, this is not always a bad thing. If you can get over that hurdle, you’ll find that you still share quite a few good things in common.

For a first date, respect his or her views and don’t argue. It’s likely that their strong views have a basis and you may end up agreeing on a lot of things, anyway.

In the beginning, avoid hot-button topics (like politics or religion) so you can get to know more about who you are inside. Just because a person has strong opinions, it doesn’t mean he or she will never change their minds, or will force you to agree with them.

It’s all about how you respect each other. Take it easy, get to know each other better, and focus on what you have in common—this will help you enjoy your date and may even lead to better things for you both!

Dating can be simple or complicated but just like bread in its many forms, it’s a vital part of the life we lead and the love we knead.

He or she has a “no-frills” (hindi maarte) outlook in life, and likes to move in a hurry. Works hard and may border on being a workaholic. May or may not be so ambitious but takes pride in getting tasks done on time, or even ahead of time.

When you’re out on a date, make sure you don’t make him or her wait too long: 10 minutes might be the absolute limit.

It might be a good idea to start a conversation by talking about what each of you do for a living. However, take the cue from him or her. If this topic seems to cause stress (after all, you’re both on a date to forget about work for a few hours) don’t stay too long on it.

Instead, talk about hobbies, reminisce about good memories of school, friends, or travels.

A seeker of both riches and richness in life. Your date tends to long for excitement and intense, unforgettable experiences. It won’t be unusual if your first date includes something adventurous: hiking, rappelling, bungee-jumping, or even just a scary amusement park ride.

He or she loves to get the adrenalin flowing—so working out together in a gym or going to a yoga class, etc., are definitely options.

If you’re not the adventure-seeking type, then maybe you may hesitate—unsure if you can keep up with your date’s or partner’s level of energy. Then again, maybe he or she could be the one who rocks your world, making it more exciting with pleasant surprises.

Your partner or prospective partner puts a lot of stock in strong family bonds; and in values that may be considered “old-fashioned” by some.

Respect, gratitude towards parents, mentors, older relatives, good manners—these are things that he or she will appreciate. No need to be overly expressive, as any “loud” display of affection may make him or her feel awkward or embarrassed.

Just be thoughtful, warm, and treat him or her with kindness and respect.

Your date might be intellectual, cultured, or worldly. He or she is open to new ideas and may have a creative or artistic streak. If this is true, and your date is into creative or artistic work, then show that you are interested in his creations. Ask about his or her creative process, what’s their source of inspiration, the type of music, books, paintings, films, etc. they enjoy.

They may also have a playful or even humorous and witty streak, so keep the fun going by simply asking questions and letting them talk—at least on the first date, stay quiet and listen. Enjoy the moment. Who knows? His or her next creative work might have you as the inspiration!

Your date is reliable, dependable and has self-discipline. However, there’s certainly more than meets the eye. He or she could be hiding a more complicated, more interesting persona inside: but you would have to discover that for yourself.

Mr. or Ms. Vanila might seem easygoing and funny—but may hide an intelligent or philosophical part to his or her personality. Or he or she might seem overly serious—but you might bring out their lighter, humorous twist.

In any case, vanilla is an invitation to get know your date more, although it would take some work and patience.