Dating can be a minefield, especially in the age of apps, websites and social media. If you’re tired of going on disastrous dates, or a lack of success is getting you down, here are some simple steps to take the stress out of dating and make every date fun.
Avoid first date clichés
When somebody says the word ‘date’ to you, what kinds of images pop into your mind? For most of us, it’s a couple visiting a romantic restaurant or a trendy cocktail bar. There’s nothing wrong with going out for something to eat or a drink, but if you get nervous about having dinner with a stranger, or you don’t handle alcohol brilliantly, it’s best to avoid first date clichés. Mix things up and try something different. Go for a stroll at the park or the beach, go to the zoo, grab a coffee or have brunch, or do something active or creative, such as an art class, a bike ride or al fresco yoga. There are so many options to choose from. Make sure you’re relaxed and you feel comfortable.
Surround yourself with singles
Nothing makes you feel more single than being surrounded by people who are in long-term relationships. If your friends are married, they have been with their partners for ages, or they have kids, and it affects your mood, start hanging out with single people. Socialize with single friends and work colleagues and get involved in events and activities like speed dating, parties or days out for singles. You can also try to make connections online via local social media groups.
Stop putting pressure on yourself and banish timelines
One of the reasons people get bogged down by dating is that they put too much pressure on themselves. If you go into every date thinking that you have to meet ‘the one’ that day, or you have a timeline in your mind, which dictates what you’re going to do in the next five years, this takes the fun and spontaneity out of dating. Be open-minded and try to relax. See how you gel with people you meet and go with the flow. Society can make us feel like we have to hit certain targets by a certain age, but everyone is different and life doesn’t always pan out how you planned. Focus on what you want and spend time with people who make you feel happy.
Prioritize quality over quantity
If you’re looking for the perfect partner, it’s understandable to assume that the more people you date, the higher the chance of finding a match. Dating for the sake of it can be stressful and it can put you off and knock your confidence. Concentrate on finding people who you are likely to get on with and prioritize quality over quantity.
Are you finding dating stressful? If you’ve lost interest, or you’re struggling to find people who you have a connection with, it may be time to make a few changes. Have fun, take the stress out of dating, hang out with single people, try different types of dates and prioritize quality over quantity. Dating should never be a chore.
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