Seriously, as if dating in 2019 wasn’t hard enough it looks like 2020 is set to be exactly the same. There’s only so many dating shows we can face rejection from (I’m looking at you First Dates). But it doesn’t have to be all bad, the online dating scene is full of other single people looking for love too, you just have to dodge the occasional f*ckboy and navigate the weird world of Tinder first. Chances are you’ll meet some weird chat up lines along the way, face a bit of ghosting and have the occasional bad date but trust us, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Are you a dating newbie? Check out our top online dating tips.
Be proactive.
I hate to break it to you but Mr Right isn’t gonna come knocking on your door at 6pm with a bunch of roses on a Saturday night while you’re watching Love Is Blind. You are going to have to put in a little work. That means going on dating apps, making small talk, going out and meeting new people and of course, dating. They’re not all going to be the one, chances are you won’t like a lot of them but you will get to meet a lot of new people, potentially make new friends and also increase the chances of eventually meeting Prince Charming.
Don’t stalk TOO much.
This is definitely easier said than done and we’re all a little bit guilty of becoming a Wagatha Christie but the last thing you want is to accidentally drop something on the date that you shouldn’t have known. Sure, a quick check of his insta is fine, you wanna get a better idea of what you’re getting in to but going onto his ex girlfriend’s best friend’s sister’s boyfriend’s instagram is probably a step too far. In general, avoid exes at all costs. It just brings unnecessary comparison and the threat of an accidental like is too real.
Have options.
As dating tips go, this will probably divide opinion but having options while dating can be an absolute life saver. (Please see ‘Benching’ in our dating dictionary) They were right on Love Island when they said don’t put all your eggs in one basket because when that basket splits and decides he wants to date Becky from down the road instead, you’re left with nothing. We’re not saying you need to date a different guy every night of the week but speaking to a few online not only distracts you from when one doesn’t reply, it means you’re left with options should they suddenly pull a Caspar the friendly ghost on you.
Keep it fun.
Dating should be fun. The early talking stages are far too soon to be confused or stressing about why they’re taking longer than 0.4 seconds to respond. Keep your standards high and stay mindful of those red flags but don’t get in your own head too much, if anything it will just show to whoever you’re talking to and push them away. No one wants a message saying “I text you at 9.08 and you were online at 9.12 but didn’t reply until 10”, we’re all busy people with our own lives, so just take it easy. This is where having options comes in handy. Jake not replying? Didn’t even notice, I was talking to Tom.
Meet in public.
Ok so you’ve spent a few days talking and he’s really funny, sends you memes and replies quickly. You’re ready to take it to the next stage. This one is probably more applicable to online dating but if you’re ever meeting someone you don’t know, it’s best to meet somewhere public where you feel comfortable and safe. Tell a friend/family member where you’re going and who you’re meeting. Chances are, you’ll be absolutely fine but it can put your mind at ease. Save the Netflix and chill round his till a few dates down the line.
What are your top dating tips? We wanna know! May the odds be ever in your favour girl.
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