Dating can be a challenge, and at times very intimidating. We all have had our share of experiences when it comes to dating. Some are good ones and yes, some are terrible ones. But it doesn’t mean that we should stop finding love and be happy, right?
For some, finding the right person is easy enough. A chance meeting in your favorite coffee shop can spark up some attraction right away or maybe a few swipes left, or swipe right – then you may have already clicked with that person right away! What luck!
However, others may find it hard to find the right “someone”. But the good thing is that nowadays, there are many ways to meet people. Gone are the days of just going on blind dates or meeting someone through mere connections, or an introduction from your family and friends.
Because of modern technology, even dating can be done online.
What is online dating?
Online dating is a simple method of meeting possible partners without leaving your house. And it became more popular, especially during the pandemic. Dating apps such as Bumble or Tinder are getting popular because it is convenient and easy to use especially during the pandemic.
But these days, regardless if people are still on lockdown or not, online dating has been the preference for most people, single or not, young and old alike.
Pros and Cons
Just like any other aspect of life, online dating has its own pros and cons. And whether or not you are considering trying it out or have tried it, here are some of the things that you may need to know more about it.
The Pros
You can meet more people
Using different apps or websites, meeting many people is more possible. There are many options and it is easy, safe, fast, and convenient. You don’t have to go out and spend a lot of time going through traffic or making restaurant reservations just to meet the person.
No more silence
When meeting your date face to face, there are times that you clam up and the date might lead to an awkward silence. If you are a person who tends to be very shy, online dating is a good option because it helps eliminate silence. It is much simpler to express yourself without getting nervous or apprehensive.
You don’t have to worry about not being able to speak because you can keep up with the conversation and it provides you the confidence to talk to your possible partner.
More available options
Dating and finding the right person is challenging. You will never know when or where you will find your “ideal” partner. But with online dating, you are given with more options.
For example, if you want to date someone who travels a lot, dating apps will let you connect with people who share the same interest as yours. Also, the ability to speak with multiple people at once is one of its biggest benefits.
Saves time
The ability to save time is yet another benefit of online dating. In fact, given your access to a diverse group of people, you may decide whether a certain person appeals to you based on their appearance and personality.
If the individual is not appealing to you, you may simply avoid talking and spending any time with them and dedicate your attention to others who may be more compatible with you. As a result, online dating may save you a significant amount of time that you would instead of spending on prospects who do not fulfill your requirements for a long-term commitment.
The Cons
Fraudsters
This is one of the most common problems of online dating. Online dating services make it simple for con artists to target people who are serious about finding their future partner. They typically create fake profiles with made-up data and pictures, which may be difficult for most people to identify.
At first, they will work hard to gain your trust and eventually, will ask for financial help because of many reasons. Once you have given them money, they will disappear from the dating app and you have already been conned. Luckily, these days many people are becoming vigilant and aware of these scam artists. But still, many fall prey to these fraudsters and it is giving online dating a bad reputation.
Taking longer to find Mr. Right
While there are more options to finding your Mr. Right, it may also mean that there is more uncertainty. Because there are a lot of people to choose from, it may take quite a while for you to decide which is sometimes a disadvantage.
Hours spent online could become tiring which makes you more desperate and causes distress mentally. So even if you have many options available, there are times that you have nothing to pick from. But if you are willing to put in the time, you will eventually meet someone. However, if you lack patience, online dating may not be for you.
Less personal and engaging
With online dating, talking with your potential partner can be less engaging and personal. Since you do your communication online, it is hard to catch their feelings or other nuances that your potential partner may have.
Remember, for a relationship to flourish, you both must understand each other and still communicate face-to-face to form that intimacy that a relationship should have. Be on the lookout for persons who just say that they enjoy talking to you but never really follow through.
Conclusion
Remember that online dating is best used as a tool to meet individuals for potential in-person dates. You can avoid becoming overly preoccupied with online dating’s drawbacks and restrictions by setting a goal in your mind.
So, if you find yourself confused, moving a conversation toward a date is the best course of action. Find ways to narrow down your options if you feel overwhelmed by having too many to choose from. Send them a quick message if you’re not sure what to do with a potential match.
If you get tired of communicating online, suggest a face-to-face meeting. This will make it simpler for you to connect while satisfying people both offline and online.