Dating these days can be challenging. Barely anyone meets the old-fashioned way — in a coffee shop, bookstore, or bar. Instead, most young people reach for social media and dating apps to find their soulmates.
Online dating allows us to create an idealized version of ourselves and present what we offer to potential suitors. But after you match with someone and chat for a bit, you have to make the move to real life, which can be frightening.
Luckily, we’re here to help you with the following seven tips on moving from online to real-life dating.
1. Do some research on them.
Let’s be clear: We’re not advocating for full-on stalking of someone on all their social media accounts. But if you’ve only known someone online, giving their posts and accounts a quick look might be a good idea.
Of course, many people beautify their lives on social media, so it’s not a true representation of their day-to-day activities. But still, having a rough idea of who they are is a safe thing to do before meeting someone for the first time.
After all, we live in the day and age of social media, so be sure to utilize it!
Plus, it can be a serious red flag if someone is unwilling to share their social media with you.
2. Pick a neutral location.
When meeting someone for the first time, it’s important to pick a neutral location, such as a coffee shop, restaurant, or bar. Don’t meet in secluded locations where there is no one else in sight.
After all, you don’t know the person you’re meeting, so stay extra careful.
3. Meet during daylight.
Besides meeting in a public place, you should also aim to meet someone in the daylight. While it’s tempting (and a lot of us do it), it’s best not to meet someone from a dating app at night for the first time.
There’s no shortage of terrifying horror stories when it comes to dating, so be sure not to add your own to the mix.
That said, a bar can still be a good idea as long as it’s not just the two of you. Also, make sure not to drink too much, if you do drink at all.
4. Pick a quick date event.
There’s nothing worse than getting stuck in a four-course dinner with someone you have zero chemistry with.
Some of us are outspoken enough to stop a date when we feel like it’s not going anywhere. But not all of us have the guts to do that.
So if you’re on the timid side, make sure to plan a date that doesn’t require you to spend hours and hours with your potential suitor. A good first date can be grabbing a cup of coffee, taking a walk, or planning a fun activity.
That way, you won’t have to spend too much time with the person if you don’t vibe together. But if you happen to have great chemistry, you can always prolong the date.
5. Set clear boundaries
Another thing you should do is make a plan for how you want things to go. For instance, if you know you don’t want to make the date last too long, be clear about it. If you don’t want to do anything physical on the first date, be strict about it.
Of course, things can change, and you might want to adjust your boundaries. But don’t let anyone manipulate or guilt you into doing things you’re uncomfortable with.
6. Have a video chat or phone call before the meeting.
Sometimes it can be a good idea to have a phone call or video chat before meeting someone in person. This can quickly show you whether you have chemistry or not.
This can be beneficial since it’s hard to determine if your personalities match if you only text one another. Plus, hearing someone’s voice can be appealing and help you decide whether you’re attracted to them.
7. Tell someone where you’re going.
Another safety tip you should keep in mind is letting someone close to you know where you’re going. It can be a family member, friend, or coworker, but be sure to do it.
In the same sense, don’t agree to get into someone’s car and drive to an undisclosed location without informing someone.
Remember that your safety is the most important thing. So, while you shouldn’t assume the worst, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Making the move from a dating app to a real-life date can be exciting but also terrifying. There are many things to consider, from your outfit through talking points to the final place you’re meeting up. So, this advice can hopefully ease your stress and help you prepare for a fun date.
What are some of your advice on moving a date from online to real life? Let us know in the comments.
Featured image via Taryn Elliott on Pexels
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