If you’re a modern-day Cinderella who’s actively searching for a Prince Charming, or perhaps a Knight in Shining Armor who’s looking for a damsel in distress, you might have already heard about various dating apps and dating sites.
Much hype is given over the idea of finding a perfect match online. In connection to this, you might have already heard about Miss Social Media who met her Mr. Right via a dating site. But did they live happily ever after?
Despite the fairytale-like possibilities that dating sites and apps hold, it is always best to manage your expectations. Remember, a “happy-ever-after” is not always a guarantee but who says you cannot have all the fun you can get?
Here Are Top 10 Tips if You’re Into Online Dating;
1. Don’t share personal information.
Just because you’re talking to someone whose voice sounds like your hot celebrity crush doesn’t mean that he’s that guy. Don’t be gullible enough to share your entire biography. Remember, you’re not applying for a job and you’re not marrying the guy. You’re just having fun.
That’s what online dating is all about. You can have fun but you have to protect yourself and your identity above everything else. So don’t be fooled by sexy voices and pretty pictures. What’s in your mind is only in your mind.
2. Don’t agree to meet up immediately.
You might say; “what’s the point of using online dating sites and apps if we can’t hang out and have an actual date?” Here’s some reality check. Are you supposed to meet up with complete strangers? Haven’t you heard about fake profiles, date rapes, and obsessed stalkers? Technically, online dating means meeting new people; like potential partners, who share your interests and preferences.
While this is true, we don’t live in a perfect world where everyone is spared from ogres and monsters. A lot of them exist online. So to be on the safe side, don’t agree to meet up right away. You can flirt and talk all you want, even get a little naughty, but don’t agree to meet up with a complete stranger.
3. Don’t be fooled by impressive profiles.
It’s so easy to lie online. In fact, the internet is the perfect place where you can build a perfect profile for the world to see. The internet allows you to create your own make-believe fantasy world where you can be anyone you choose. So if you can do such thing online, then you can also make the people you meet online to believe it.
So don’t be fooled by impressive profiles and gorgeous looks. Sometimes, those are just illusions which are meant to lure your attention and interest. Although this is not always the case, it happens most of the time – especially for those who want to score a date.
4. Manage your expectations.
Online dating doesn’t guarantee a fairy tale kind of love. What it can offer is fun, excitement and an opportunity to explore different things. So if you are a hopeless romantic, maybe it’s about time that you open up your mind on what’s real and what’s not.
There’s no denying that online dating apps and sites are intriguing. And, it’s also natural for you to become curious on what it has in store for you. But let’s get the facts straight; online dating is all about meeting new people and having a means to socialize. True love is an entirely different thing. So let nature take its course and stop feeding your illusions. Just let loose and have fun.
5. Be natural.
When dating online, it’s best to act naturally. Avoid being pretentious. Pretending to be someone you’re not can add pressure to the situation. So just be “you” and be proud of the uniqueness of your personality. You’d be amazed at how fun and exciting it can be once you find someone whom you can connect and share interests with.
Also, don’t be intimidated by the idea of talking to a stranger – even if you don’t find a common ground. Sometimes, the most unexpected friendships can unfold in the most unlikely situations. So as much as you want to stay guarded, be friendly and pleasant as well.
6. Learn to say “no”.
Online dating is a liberating experience. You would most likely come across singles that can make you feel uncomfortable especially those with bizarre dating habits. If it’s not your style, don’t give in and just say “no”. Don’t force yourself to discuss and do things you’re not comfortable with. Remember, online dating is supposed to be fun. So if you don’t like what’s going on in your date, you can always drop the conversation and forget about it.
7. Don’t talk about your ex.
Talking about your past relationships can be very awkward towards the other party. It can make your online date feel uncomfortable and unimportant. Talking about your previous relationship is an indication that you’re not over with it yet and you’re merely looking for a rebound.
While it’s fine for others to talk about their ex, there’s no relevance in doing so. It’s all in the past and what matters is the present. Besides, there are a handful of topics that can make an online date interesting and your ex is not one of them.
8. Don’t get drunk while online dating.
Although it feels comforting and relaxing to have a glass of wine while online dating, it is actually a recipe for disaster. Remember not to have too much alcohol while talking to a stranger or you might end up spilling the beans.
Drinking while online dating is much like drinking and driving. You can literally get into trouble. So to put everything under control and to restrain yourself from saying unnecessary things, don’t get drunk while you’re on an online date.
9. Maintain a curiosity gap.
Finding an online date that makes your heart flutter and skip a beat can be quite overwhelming. However, don’t act too crazy about it. Even princesses have to wait for the right time to be with their prince. Why? It’s because choosing the right person in your life requires certainty. Moreover, honest and genuine relationships take time and hard work.
So don’t reveal yourself and your feelings after just a few online dates. Allow your friendship to flourish without forcing it. Stay curious about each other especially with regards to your interests and personal life. Maintain a certain amount of gap that only time and sincerity can fill in.
10. Be selective of your online dates.
You don’t have to give in to every online date. You have the freedom to narrow down your options. This can increase the quality of your online dates and increase the chances of you finding someone you’re compatible with.
Being selective also makes you feel more optimistic about your dates knowing that you have shortlisted the best you could find and who are worthy of your time.
Following these basic tips can give you a good head start with your online dating venture. These tips can also help you separate your illusions from reality. Online dating is a good way to meet people as long as you know how to set proper boundaries and know exactly the perfect time to tear them down.