Meeting a normal, high-quality person is not easy and it seems to be getting harder these days.
I know loads of single people who just can’t seem to meet someone who makes enough of an impression on them to actually pursue a relationship. They will go on one or two dates and then that’s it.
More and more people are turning to online dating
I think that online dating is a fantastic way of increasing your chances of finding a partner. Especially if you’re not the type of person who likes to go out every single weekend.
Sure, people are going to tell you about all the weird, desperate people that are online. They will share their horror stories with you. And, it would be wise to pay attention. BUT, don’t let it put you off.
There are just as many faulty characters lurking around pubs and clubs. You have just as much chance of going on a horror date with someone you met at your local bar, as with the person you’ve been chatting to online.
In your search for ‘the one’, you’re going to have to deal with a few freaky frogs, no matter which route you choose.
My friend who had given up all hope of meeting someone, eventually met a great guy online and they have been married for nearly a year now.
So, let’s say you are considering giving online dating a bash – here are four mistakes you need to avoid making.
1. False advertising
Always think of your online profile as an advertisement.
When it comes to the photos you choose to load and the information you share, the most important and obvious thing is to keep things real.
Do not be tempted to lie about your age, your qualifications or what you do for a living. You would not like it if a guy did that to you.
Post a recent and decent photo of yourself. NOT the one from 10 years ago when you were 10kgs lighter and a model posing in a bikini. It’s false advertising! You want people to be interested in you – the real you, the you of today!
There is no point in lying; people always find out.
2. Avoid over-sharing
More often than not people regret sharing too much information too soon – socially, romantically and even in business meetings or job interviews. Keep things tight and tidy.
You need to think carefully about the early-stage conversations. For example, if someone asks you why you are single, you should definitely tell the truth, but you do not need to share the finer details.
Whatever the reason, just keep it simple. It is enough that your ex was unfaithful, or that you grew apart, or that you haven’t met anyone you click with yet.
No need for something like this:
‘Ag! You know – the usual. He cheated on me – with one of my friends. He is such a dog. We fought all the time. I found messages on his phone which confirmed the affair. Instead of saying sorry, he told me that it was my fault because I was no longer satisfying him in the bedroom! Can you believe it? I mean, our child is only 12-months old – I am still struggling with a lot of stuff. So, now, here I am on this site, trying to find a nice, normal guy who won’t cheat on me…’
3. Don’t play down your intentions
Protect yourself (and any potential partner) from major heartbreak and time wasting by being completely honest about your intentions.
If all you want is a few casual dates on the odd occasion – nothing serious, make it known.
If you’ve been divorced and never want to get married again, but are keen to have a serious relationship – make it known.
If you’re hoping to meet ‘the one’, get married and have children – make it known.
4. No money from the honey!
Sadly, there are loads of scumbags on online dating sites. Some will only want your body, others want your money. Be VERY careful!
These sneaky snakes will say almost anything in the quest to steal money from you. And don’t be fooled into thinking that, because he has been chatting to you for months on end and maybe shared photos of himself with his children, his pets or his sick mother, he can be trusted.
These predators have patience. They will take all the time they need to lie to and manipulate you. The tricks that they have up their sleeves are endless.
You do not need a man who needs your money!
NEVER fall into a trap of handing money over. No matter how genuine or sad the story they are spinning sounds. Even if they send you documents (doctor or vet bills) as proof – DO NOT FALL FOR IT! Even if you have met him, like him and think he is a decent person – you do not give him money.
Source: Capital FM