It’s best if the two of you are somewhere dark, quiet and private. That way, you can focus all of your attention on one another. [2] X Research source

Standing face-to-face almost guarantees the prospect of a kiss. Don’t, however, hover unnecessarily close or violate their personal space. This will make you come across as more creepy than charming.

Keep an eye out for what’s known as the “lover’s triangle”: glancing from one or both your eyes down to your lips and back. It’s a nearly foolproof clue that your date foresees a kiss in their future. [5] X Research source

The best time to act usually comes after either you or your date has said something along the lines of “I had a really great time tonight. ” When you’ve run out of things to talk about but you’re both still standing around expectantly, there’s a good chance your date is waiting on a kiss. You can always ask permission before you go in for a kiss.

There’s no guarantee that just because your date had a good time they’ll be ready for a kiss just yet. Not everybody works at the same pace. Tune yourself in to their emotional state before you plan your next move. Don’t hesitate if it feels right. Many people consider a goodnight kiss the perfect way to end a fabulous date.

Try to pick up on indications that your date is trying to put distance between the two of you emotionally, such as seeming overly quiet or disinterested, sighing or turning their back.

Listen for brisk, conclusive phrases like “I’ll call/text you,” “I have to be up early in the morning” or simply “goodnight. ” This kind of finality is typically reserved for when someone wants to put an end to things in a hurry. A hug can go either way. If your date goes for a hug to be closer to you, and holds on for a long time, it could be taken as encouragement for the kiss. If it feels like more of a platonic gesture, however, try to take the hint.

Some other promising signs to look for are rapid, shallow breathing, continued licking of the lips and a quick or pounding heartbeat. Most of the time, your date will make it clear to you whether or not they want you to kiss them.

In some cases, it might be interpreted as rude to cut your date off with a kiss mid-sentence, while in other circumstances they might find it romantic. Use your best judgment before you commit. A sudden, expectant pause in the conversation usually makes a perfect occasion to initiate a kiss.

You can either go straight for the lips, or pull back momentarily to heighten the anticipation before you finally seal the deal. If she turns her head as you lean in, just apologize, laugh it off and leave with your dignity intact.

Keep your eyes closed until you disengage. It’s always weird to find the other person staring at your during a meaningful kiss. Get a sense of when to end the kiss. Wait until the passion reaches its peak, then be the first to break away. Always leave them wanting more. [13] X Research source

Though your date may be sending you signals that they want to be kissed, that doesn’t mean they’re alright with being groped or manhandled. For the most part, you should keep your hands to yourself until you start getting the signals for that, too. Getting too worked up during a kiss is a surefire way to ruin it, and potentially embarrass yourself.