Reasons TO Date Online
I have dated online and had successful relationships, including a 14 year marriage, come from that experience. I know that online dating isn’t for everyone, but neither are singles dances. There are advantages and disadvantages, and I would just like to point out some of the advantages for those who may find themselves in the group who online dating will work for.
Here are some advantages that I see to online dating:
1. It’s not lame. It is modern.
Not everyone gets it. Not everyone is comfortable with technology. For some of us, though, this is a great solution.
2. It helps make it easier when you finally meet in person.
How else would Kip and Lafawnduh have been so ready to meet in person if they had not already gotten to know each other online?
What is awkward? Having to approach a complete stranger at a singles dance. They may look good, but they may be completely wrong for you. Getting to know each other online helps you get through some of the dealbreakers that older people will get right to when dating. You young folks in your 20s can worry about the romantic stuff, in your 40s women want to make sure the man has a steady job and then we can get to the romantic stuff (at least that has been my experience).
3. Online dating is another resource that can expand your pool of potential matches.
You’re not limited to just those who show up at the monthly singles activity. If you are interested in a long distance relationship (proceed with caution), then you can meet people from literally all over the world. It also helps you filter potential matches using factors like age. I really appreciate this because I am not very good at guessing age based on appearance alone. I can get it in the ball park, but even so home plate to left field is still a little bit more of an age difference than I would like.
4. It’s a great part of your overall dating strategy.
I believe in doing everything I can (putting myself out there) to meet my future spouse. I try to go to singles activities, I have indicated to some close friends that I am OK with being set up, and I am looking online. Hopefully, all of this activity will increase my chances of finding someone sooner.
5. We have to do our part.
My father was fond of saying “work like everything depends on us and pray like everything depends on God.” Although I am asking for his help, I am also trying to make things happen so that hopefully I will know when the right one comes along.
6. You can focus less on the physical appearance, and more on the personality.
I know your online dating profile needs a picture, and your picture will be looked at and judged, but my experience has been that there is less emphasis on the physical and more on the other aspects to see if you really would be a good match.
With all of that being said, please practice good safety when meeting people in real life that you met online first. I have heard some stories about some of the creeps that people meet online. Be careful. If you have a bad feeling about meeting someone, don’t meet them. Ask for references. Check them out. Look at their Facebook and other social media.
~Robert Casey