The dating landscape has definitely evolved. Like most things today, the way we date is being influenced by the digital age and all the convenient yet complicated tools that go along with it. And though it’s not necessarily a good or a bad thing, dating in a digital age is a reality that all daters need to learn how to navigate.
For those of you who may not be the most digital-savvy daters but are trying to find love in this brave new world, here are five quick tips on how to approaching dating today:
1. Remember the process.
Many of the activities that that make up our day-to-day lives have become more convenient—that includes everything from the way we shop for groceries to our commute to work, and especially the way we send and receive information. That convenience can be so infectious that it impacts the expectations we have for dating.
That’s why it’s good to remember that all things in life are created as the result of a specific process. Dating is no different. It’s a process, not a one-time task to be completed and checked off your to-do list. Because of this, every text and phone conversation matters. Even the dates that don’t blossom into a long-term romance, or the relationships that don’t stand the test of time add up in the grand scheme of things. They are all part of the process of finding out who you are, what you want, and who you ultimately want to spend your time here on earth with. When it comes to your love life, what you want is available, but you have to build towards it.
2. Focus on relationship development.
Thought there are more options to meet other singles than ever before, and although it’s easier to find people to date, healthy relationships are intentionally developed. They aren’t commodities to be purchased or bartered for. Whether initiated online or off, good relationships require consistent effort, reciprocity and commitment.
3. Embrace the tools.
There are countless numbers of dating apps and sites out there. There are over two billion people on social media. You can meet these people by setting up profiles, swiping right, liking a profile, or sending a direct message (also known as a dm). All of this has made the world smaller. The dating pool has increased. You’re no longer forced to only engage with people in your city or town. Be open and use these tools to make connections. You may have to weed through a few more unfit candidates then you would like, but remember that your potential to find the right person has expanded exponentially.
4. Move offline quickly.
When meeting someone online it’s best not to stay there. Once there’s mutual interest and a bit of a rapport, relocate the conversation by swapping phone numbers and having a quick phone conversation or text exchange. This will allow you to take the next forward and learn more about the person than what their profile and online persona tells you.
5. Be available.
It’s shocking how many singles have private social media profiles. The best way to find what you’re looking for, is to make yourself available to it, so don’t neglect the tools that are at your disposal. You can still monitor your friends and followers, but by allowing your social media feeds (specifically Twitter and Instagram) to be public you open another avenue to meet great people.
The pace at which we’re currently living can sometimes be overwhelming. Many of us are outside of our comfort zones when it comes to technology, especially when it comes to dating. That’s a good thing. The key is to embrace the new possibilities without losing yourself. Your ability to do this will go along way towards helping you find what you’re looking for.
