108 - Online & Offline Dating Advice
Do you sometimes read online advice articles and think, "Well, I didn’t learn anything new?" I often feel that way about articles offering dating advice, and many times, the articles don’t speak to the particular challenges of dating with a disability.
Today, I’m taking some nuggets from an article, "How to Be Better at Online Dating According to Psychology," and offering a twist to them if you live with a disability AND also if you prefer to do offline dating.
Step 1: Choose the Right Dating App
The first piece of advice is all about choosing the right dating app. Remember, dating isn't a one-size-fits-all game. Be selective! Different apps cater to different needs and preferences. Some are known for casual encounters, while others are designed for people with shared interests or beliefs. Use apps that align with your partner preferences.
Step 2: Honesty Is the Best Policy
Step number two: Honesty is the best policy. Research shows that people tend to connect with others who are similar to themselves in various aspects of life, such as relationship history, family planning, pet preferences, and religion. So, be honest about who you are and what you want. If you have any deal-breakers, mentioning them upfront can save you time and effort in the long run.
Step 3: The Power of Your Profile Picture
Moving on to step number three – the power of your profile picture. It's essential that your photos accurately depict your physical appearance, but they should also be ones you genuinely like. Research suggests that specific attributes, like a genuine smile and a slight head tilt, can increase your likability. Remember, these photos are your first impression, so choose wisely!
Step 4: Crafting an Engaging Profile Description
Step number four is all about your profile description. Nobody wants to read a lengthy essay. People swipe through profiles quickly. So, get to the point! State the things that matter most to you, but also highlight what makes you unique. People are drawn to interesting individuals.
Step 5: Be Open-Minded
In step number five, we encourage you to be open-minded. Don't write someone off just because they have different hobbies or interests. Being as open-minded as possible is important, as personal growth is often a hallmark of successful long-term relationships. You might be surprised at what you can learn from someone you meet online.
Step 6: Keep Conversations Short and Engaging
Now, let's discuss keeping your conversations short and engaging. While online interactions are essential, there are aspects of a relationship that can only be discovered face-to-face. Make an effort to get to know the person by asking about specific aspects of their profile, likes, and dislikes.
Step 7: Have Fun!
And finally, step number seven: Have fun! Dating apps should be an enjoyable experience, not a chore. If it starts feeling like work or you're not having fun, it might be time for a break or to try something different. Enjoy the process, and remember, love should feel exciting, not exhausting.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Online Dating
Remember, it's all about choosing the right app, being honest, picking the right profile picture, crafting an engaging profile, staying open-minded, keeping conversations interesting, and most importantly, having fun.
Resources
How to Write a Kick Butt Dating Profile
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Music by Successful Motivation
Artwork photo by Elevate
