It’s no secret that dating can be challenging and intimidating at the same time. With online dating in particular, there’s the potential of talking to someone from the opposite side of the world, which presents new challenges. You can have an entirely new experience, especially when they’re from a different cultural background. Dating does not have to be awkward because of language barriers and other issues. Online dating offers plenty of benefits.
As with everything else, there are a few dos and don’ts that will make the experience of online dating easier and more enjoyable for you and your date.
DOs
Do make an effort to prepare. It is imperative to prepare. If you take the time to learn about them, especially in the early phases of dating, it makes a world of difference.
Do listen. There is nothing more insulting than not paying attention to your date when you’re out together. If you’re on your phone, it’s an indication that you’re not interested. You should avoid distractions that prevent you from giving your date your full attention. Having a proper conversation will provide you with an opportunity to get to know one another better. There’s a reason good communication is a key factor in successful relationships.
Do take the time to learn a few words in their language. Language may be a barrier when it comes to online dating. Make an effort to pick up a few words to build rapport with them. It’s an easy way to earn brownie points and impress them.
Do express yourself. Be specific about what you’re looking for and don’t be afraid to be yourself while putting your best foot forward. Dating is already challenging enough as it is. Speaking indirectly will most likely lead to more misunderstandings. If you don’t express yourself clearly, you may be attracting the wrong people, which could lead to complications that could have been prevented in the first place.
Do keep an open mind. You met online, so everything is different. By having an open mind, you are flexible and capable of accepting ideas that were once strange to you.
DON’Ts
Don’t disclose private information too much. If you decide to meet in person, don’t give out your home address and always meet in a public place. Make sure you secure your own transportation because it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Don’t lie. It makes no sense to fake it when the person you want to date soon eventually discovers that it was all a lie. Authenticity is essential if you’re looking for someone who will take you seriously. You’ll only cause yourself more harm than good if you pretend to be someone you’re not.
Don’t use pick-up lines. In most cases, pick-up lines don’t work, unless you’re stuck in the 90s and still crushing on Joey from Friends. No offense. Pick-up lines may come off as inauthentic and they rely heavily on how receptive your date is.
Don’t discuss each other’s “exes.” The number one question you should never ask is about an ex-lover. Not only is this a major turnoff, but it also implies that you haven’t moved on from your ex. Your past relationships should be left in the past. Exes can be brought up later, but not during the early stages of dating. Be open to a new romance by not thinking about your ex; or better yet, get over them before you begin dating.
Love, in all its forms and dimensions, is for everyone. There is a whole world out there for you to explore and find whatever it is you’re looking for. Keep in mind that there is more to the person than their profile. It’s just a matter of doing the work of getting to know them.