Dating can be a fun and exciting journey, but it can also be filled with challenges and uncertainties. One of the keys to a successful dating experience is knowing the person you are going on a date with, at least on a friendship level. Unfortunately, this is not always the case with blind dates, which can often lead to disappointment. If you’ve been set up on a blind date by mutual friends, then you have some degree of certainty that the person is potentially ok – but there are never any guarantees, so be cautious.
The same can be said for online dating, where a person may only have a few typed conversations with someone before scheduling a dinner date. Online dating services are very popular as a way to meet and date people on the internet. However, without the aid and guidance of a reputable dating service, and even with their support, things can quickly get out of hand. The anonymity of the internet makes it easy for people to be untruthful about their identities and backgrounds, leading to a lack of trust between two people who have only communicated through instant messaging or email. Catfishing is rife these days.
It’s easy to fall for someone who seems charming and interesting based on a few typed conversations, but it’s important to be cautious when meeting someone in person for the first time. Scheduling a dinner date with someone you’ve only seen in a grainy picture once or twice, without first meeting for a non-committal coffee, is a recipe for disaster. You never know if the picture you’re receiving is from the present or the past, or even if it’s actually of the person you’ve been communicating with.
To stay safe when meeting someone online, it’s important to follow some basic rules of caution. Don’t share your last name, physical address, or your telephone number with anyone you meet online. Instead, consider using a well-established, reputable online dating service that has a track record of success. Word of mouth is a great way to find the perfect online dating solution for your needs. If you are going to meet up, choose a public venue, and a daytime meeting. It’s great to have a location like a shopping mall that you can easily navigate around – in case you decide to leave the date early for your safety or sanity.
While it’s true that some people have successfully met their lifelong friends or soul mates through blind dates or online dating, it’s important to listen to your gut instincts. If something feels off or seems too good to be true, it’s best to trust your instincts and proceed with caution. Blind dates can be a fun adventure for the more adventurous among us, but for those who prefer a more traditional approach to dating, it might be best to consider other options. And there are plenty of other options available.