February 12, 2025
Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor
As it gets closer to Valentine’s Day, one may be interested in looking for love. Online dating has become one of the most common ways for people to meet potential partners. The various platforms that come with online dating help one connect with other like-minded individuals through search filters. With a wide range of online options, it may feel difficult to find “The One,”, but hopefully these tips and tricks can help provide guidance.
Know what is desired and communicate earnestly — Before jumping into the dating scene, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what one is looking for. Is it a serious relationship, casual dating or something else? Defining what one wants helps to navigate online dating more effectively and set appropriate expectations.
Authenticity is key — An online dating profile is a first impression, so make sure it accurately reflects the self. Choose photos that represent one’s personality — highlighting hobbies or travels — ideally any photo that truly encapsulates who one is beyond the screen. The bio should complement the photos. A picture may be worth a thousand words, but it’s always nice to provide more context, especially when there’s travel photos. It may seem tempting to present the perfect version of oneself, but authenticity is key in finding someone who will appreciate another for the right reasons.
Be patient — Some view online dating as a numbers game, but there’s so much more to the process. It’s necessary to be selective and take time when pursuing a potential match. It’s easy to swipe endlessly, but quality connections are far more valuable than quantity. Read profiles carefully, look for shared interests and ask meaningful questions. Building a meaningful connection takes time and effort, so don’t rush through conversations or dates. Be patient, and remember that the goal is to find someone who aligns with one’s values and desires.
Safety first — While online dating offers great opportunities for connection, it’s important to prioritize safety. Always meet in public places for the first few dates and share plans with someone. Trust those gut instincts — if something feels off, don’t hesitate to walk away. Online dating can be a fun and rewarding experience, but safety should always come first. Remember, one doesn’t owe another anything.
Don’t get discouraged — Rejection and disappointments are a natural part of the dating process, especially online. Not every match will lead to a meaningful connection, and that’s okay. Stay positive, keep an open mind and don’t take things personally. With over 8 billion people on Earth, it’ll take time to meet the right person. If a particular experience or connection doesn’t work out, view it as an opportunity to learn more about what to want in a partner and expect of oneself within a relationship. Don’t feel pressured to settle for someone who doesn’t align with what one is looking for. At the same time, be open-minded. Sometimes the person who seems different on paper could be surprising and offer a meaningful connection. Balance boundaries with flexibility, and be open to exploring different types of people and relationships.
Deciding to online date involves more than just creating a profile and swiping through potential matches. It’s about being clear on what one wants, staying authentic and being patient as one builds genuine connections. With the right approach, navigating the online dating platforms successfully provides the potential of finding love in a place where digital and real-world relationships intersect.
Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu
