The Dos and Don'ts of Online Dating
Online dating can be a daunting task for those just getting started. From swiping left to meeting your date face-to-face for the first time, there are so many unknowns that it can make even the bravest person a bit nervous. While everyone’s experience is unique, there are some dos and don’ts that you should keep in mind to help you stay safe and have a successful online dating experience. Read on to find out what they are.
Table of Contents
- Do: Take Things Slow
- Don't: Give Away Too Much Personal Information
- Do: Meet In A Public Place
- Don't: Feel Pressure To Move Things Quickly
- Do: Follow Your Gut Instincts
- Don't: Focus On The Physical
- Do: Have Fun
- Conclusion
Take Things Slow
You may be tempted to dive into online dating headfirst and start messaging potential matches right away; however, it's best to take things slow. It’s a good idea to get to know the other person before you decide to meet in person. Spend some time getting to know them by sending messages and flirting through the app or website. Ask questions to get to know them better and share something about yourself. When you both feel comfortable, ask them if they would like to meet up in person.
Give Away Too Much Personal Information
When talking with someone online, you should never give away too much personal information. This includes your address, phone number, financial details, and other sensitive information. While it’s important to be honest and open when getting to know someone, your safety should always come first.
Meet In A Public Place
When you decide it’s time to meet someone you’ve been talking to online, it’s important to choose a public setting. Make sure you meet in a place where there are plenty of people around, and avoid empty parks or abandoned places. Meeting in a public place will ensure your safety, and give you an opportunity to observe how the person behaves in a public setting.
Feel Pressure To Move Things Quickly
When getting to know someone online, it’s normal to feel excited and eager to meet them in person. That said, try not to feel pressured to move things along too quickly. Take your time and wait for the right moment. Remember, building trust and intimacy takes time so try not to rush things.
Follow Your Gut Instincts
If something feels off about the person you’re talking to, don’t ignore it! Try not to be overly judgmental, but always trust your gut. If you have a bad feeling or something just doesn’t seem right, don’t hesitate to cut off contact with the person. You should always prioritize your safety and wellbeing.
Focus On The Physical
When talking to someone online, focus on getting to know the person’s character and interests and not just their looks. It’s easy to be swayed by physical attraction, but no real connection can form if you only focus on the superficial. While looks are important, it’s more important to get to know someone’s inner qualities and values.
Have Fun
The most important thing to remember is to have fun! Online dating may seem daunting at first, but it’s an exciting way to meet new people and potentially find love. So enjoy the process, stay open minded, and keep an eye out for potential matches!
Conclusion
Online dating can be a great way to meet new people; however, it’s important to stay safe while doing so. Follow the dos and don’ts listed above, and you’ll be sure to have a successful and enjoyable online dating experience.