We’ve all had an issue or two regarding dating in the digital age. Whether you’re interested in making a new friend, having a casual encounter, or finding a long-term relationship, it’s very easy to get frustrated and overwhelmed by the dizzying array of websites, apps, and notifications that keep your smartphone binging and buzzing 24 hours a day.
Our technologies have made it not just easier to make a connection, but easier not to as well, and before you throw in the towel and head back to enjoy the best online betting guide has to offer, here are a few things to keep in mind as you navigate these treacherous waters and find someone you deserve, and that deserves you.
You Will Be Meeting Strangers
This is a very important thing to remember when you’re exploring the online world. It’s not just about Stranger Danger, although there is that element to it as well, especially for women, but to have you remember you don’t actually know anything about the person you’re encountering.
The danger lies in a false sense of intimacy being created during the digital communications which take place beforehand.
Rapid-fire messaging back and forth, the exchange of heavily filtered photographs, under-the-table investigations into social media counts, and the like can all make you think you know someone far more deeply than you actually do.
What’s more, this kind of communication can see your need for instant gratification reaching dizzying heights, and demands for constant access being placed on someone you barely know are hardly appropriate.
Bear that in mind, along with a couple of the following tips, however, and you should be able to have fun!
Limit Digital Communication
Don’t let the unavoidable initial digital messaging go on for too long. Limit yourself to a couple of messages back and forth to establish mutual interest, and then pick up the phone and start getting better acquainted.
Trust your gut when you start talking on the phone too, and don’t immediately disregard your intuition regarding the other person. If you don’t like their laugh, or the conversation isn’t flowing as you feel it should, it’s quite easy to call the whole thing off.
Pay Attention to Their Signals
While these may be more difficult to read on a digital platform, there are some not-so-subtle hints that whoever you’re interested in doesn’t return your feelings.
Wait for a response after sending a text, or placing a call. As hurtful as their not replying may be, it’s a far better feeling than that of being a stalker!
Stay Honest and Open
Be upfront right from the get-go about what it is you are looking for, whether it’s something short- or long-term. It’s only fair, and will weed out mismatches early on, freeing you up to find someone who is looking for the same thing you are.
You won’t scare anyone worthwhile off by making your desires known. One of the best things about dating in such a digital world is that you will most assuredly be able to find your lobster if you put in a little effort!