Tired of swiping left or right? You are not alone. As dating apps such as Tinder continue to be the norm for people to search for potential relationships, this seems to make some feel tired over the lack of transparency and over-edited profiles. Indeed, a recent study in 2020, analyzed the self-report of 269 students and found that a very large number of matches was required for a relatively small number of meetups. Furthermore, this still resulted in a very limited number of casual sex encounters or potential romantic partners.
If you did not manage to find what you want on Tinder, do not take it as a bad sign – it is also possible to meet potential partners in other ways. So what is next? Although some may have been lucky, finding romance from a dating app, this does not have to be the only way. Below we explore a few ideas of how one may encounter a potential partner.
Networking
While a blind date may seem risky, having friends introduce you to a potential match can also be an opportunity. It is quite common and can work well as a connector. Friends are good for introductions because they are familiar with you. Still it is important that you share your likes with them to avoid a mismatch. Expanding your social circle is also another excellent approach to meet new individuals. With the Covid pandemic restrictions reducing, joining groups and friends can introduce you to people you have never met before. The larger your social network, the more likely you are to meet someone interesting.
Volunteering
Giving back is excellent for the soul, and you never know whom you will meet. Volunteer at a nearby nature reserve or animal shelter, and you can meet like-minded individuals who may also be single. Look for volunteer opportunities or sign up for something that will get you out and about meeting new people.
Focus on your interests
Look for a suitable match among persons that share similar interests with you. Joining a sports team, fitness club, or any other group of people you enjoy spending time with, is a great way to meet new possible dating candidates. Literary clubs and art groups are also a good example of this. When you make significant connections with people who share your interests and values, you increase your chances of finding love.
Still, put your foot out there
There is no rule that says you cannot use a dating app while trying to meet people in person if you are serious about finding love. While dating apps may not be your favorite way to meet someone, including them in your mix of options.
Above, we have seen a number of dating opportunities that go beyond swiping apps. An important thing to remember is to not be afraid of showing your interest when you want to meet someone. Making eye contact and a smile can go a long way with a potential match.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Charlot Cauchi is a Gestalt Psychotherapist at Willingness. He has experience working with adult clients with mental health difficulties, anxiety and depression, loss and grief, traumatic experiences, stress and relational issues.
References
Grøntvedt, T.V., Bendixen, M., Botnen, E.O. & Kennair, L.E.O. (2020). Hook, Line and Sinker: Do Tinder Matches and Meet Ups Lead to One-Night Stands? Evolutionary Psychological Science, 6, 109–118.