6 Genius Ways to Put a Positive Spin on a Bad Date

Updated on July 10, 2015 at 6:00 AM

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Trainwreck

With a positive attitude, you can change even the most uncomfortable of moments. We partnered with the film Trainwreck (see it when it hits theaters on July 17) to highlight tips that will help you handle your next bad date.

So your latest Tinder match left you disinterested in swiping altogether — it happens to the best of us. But not all crummy meetups need to end with you hanging your head in regret. If you approach each potential romance with a positive outlook, you can come away smiling no matter what the outcome. Here, six ways you can put a positive spin on a bad date.

Your date forgets their wallet.

The problem: You have nothing against paying the bill or paying for what you ate, but when the person across from you doesn't even have his or her wallet on them, it's just plain annoying.

The spin: All is not lost, friend. Just Venmo them. While the site no longer offers a $5 referral bonus, you can be sure that they pay up when they get home later.

They won't get off the phone.

The problem: That cell phone is glued to their hand, and they haven't stopped taking calls since you two sat down to break bread. You might as well be sitting there alone.

The spin: Pop your earbuds into your phone and start listening to that podcast or audiobook you've been meaning to. Sure, your table will probably make people point and wonder, but who cares. At least you're getting something done.

You get stood up.

The problem: You're alone at the table and convinced that everyone is staring at you.

The spin: Absolutely no one is staring at you. Rather than bolt out of the restaurant, use the time to give Mom a call. You're overdue.

They become immediately obsessed with you.

The problem: Having someone drool over you can be a complete turnoff, especially if you're not attracted to them whatsoever.

The spin: Excuse yourself from the table and scope out the interior of the restaurant or bar you're in. See an intricate piece of decor or bright Mediterranean floor tiles? Whip out your phone and start Instagramming. Online followers are way better than IRL ones, anyway.

You're having dinner with a total Negative Nancy.

The problem: This isn't a date, it's a therapy session. All your match wants to do is talk about how horrible their life is and how hard their day was. You tried offering advice, but they're clearly only interested in venting. Everything is awful. Always.

The spin: What was that funny image you saw on the top of Reddit today? Tell them about it and use this as a chance to practice your comedy skills, even if no one is listening.

They show up drunk.

The problem: By the time you arrive at the restaurant, your date is completely wastey-pants, and not in a fun way.

The spin: Ask to see their phone and take control of all of their social media accounts. You can upload photos of anything you want — it's not your reputation at risk, it's theirs. It's kind of mean, but they'll never know it was you.