Since the beginning of time, people have been searching for that one special person to spend the rest of their lives with. And up until a few decades ago, finding that person usually happened in one of two ways: you either met someone through your family and friends, or you went out to bars and nightclubs in search of Mr. or Ms. Right.
But today, things are a little different. With the rise of online dating apps and websites, finding a date has become a lot more complicated. It seems like everyone is swiping left and right on Tinder, trying to find their perfect match. And if you’re not using dating apps, it can feel like you’re at a disadvantage.
So how can you compete in the current dating environment? How can you find your perfect match when everyone else seems to be finding theirs? Here are a few tips that will help you find love in this day and age.
Tip #1 Use Online Dating Apps
The best way to stay competitive in the current dating world is to use online dating apps. The rise of these apps and websites has made it easy for people to find a date quickly, no matter where they are in the world. And even if online dating doesn’t work out for you, it will at least give you a chance to meet people outside of your friend group.
Meeting people through the apps can be exhausting, especially if you’re constantly swiping left and right on Tinder — or worse, ghosting people. But it’s worth giving a shot. There are some great people out there who haven’t found the love of their life yet. And you never know which app they’re using.
So, before you write off online dating, give it a try. You’ll be surprised by how many new people you meet. And if you don’t like it, you can always delete the app and go back to using your friend group as a dating pool.
Tip #2 Consider Your Alternatives
If you’ve tried — and failed — in finding love through the apps, don’t lose all hope yet. Understandably, it can be more difficult to find a partner when you’re not subscribing to the traditional genders. LGBTQ individuals, for example, usually have a harder time finding a date.
But there are plenty of other options out there that you can try, such as LGBTQ matchmaking services, adult friend finders, and even speed dating events. These are all great alternatives if you’re tired of swiping left on people who don’t meet your standards.
Not only will these make you feel more included in the dating world, but they can also help you find the perfect match. Getting involved in your community is never a bad idea, so don’t be afraid to branch out and try new things if you’re struggling in the dating scene.
Tip #3 Staying Positive Can Make All the Difference
Although dating in the 21st century can be difficult, that’s no reason to give up. Finding someone you love shouldn’t be this hard. If you approach dating with the right mindset, it can be fun and exciting instead of exhausting and frustrating.
Just remember to keep an open mind when meeting people. You never know who you’ll meet or where they’ll be. The same goes for dating apps — remember that the person you’re swiping left on could be the love of your life.
That’s why you shouldn’t write off people just because they don’t meet your standards. Of course, there will always be a non-negotiable, such as the age gap or the foul attitude, but you shouldn’t eliminate people just because they don’t have your dream job or your dream personality.
Tip #4 Be Yourself
One of the biggest relationship killers nowadays is lying about who you are. Many people meet each other through apps, so you want to make sure the person you’re meeting is interested in your personality and not just your looks.
When you’re putting up an online profile, make sure you’re being 100% truthful about who you are. Don’t post any misleading photos, and write an honest description of what you’re looking for on a date. Be confident when talking to people online. Don’t be afraid to make the first move. If you act like yourself, it will be easier for people to get to know who you are.
Remember that love takes time. It’s possible to find someone perfect for you if you keep your expectations low and try new things like dating apps and other alternative venues. Dating today is brutal. There are so many people out there looking for a partner, and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed.
But don’t lose hope just yet. There is still plenty of fish in the sea, and all it takes is a little patience to find the perfect match. If you follow these tips, you’re sure to have better luck in your search for love. So, good luck out there because you’re going to need it!