Online dating stigma
Let’s face it, a lot of people are not willing to admit that they are looking online for a date. Sure, it’s not as bad as it used to be but there is still some hesitation to admit you have a profile.
The truth is, more people are searching online than ever before. I don’t think there is one single reason why people are searching online but many different ones and they depend on the person:
• They may have a busy schedule.
• They may be too shy to ask someone out in person.
• They may not have enough opportunities to meet other people.
• Some may not be able to handle rejection well – if someone does not reply to your email, no big deal.
• Or, they may be looking for something exotic (I will let your imagine play with this one).
Whatever the reason, online dating is a good alternative to considering a future alone. I can’t say that trying to get a date online is easier than trying to meet someone in the real world. For my part, I have had a much better success rate getting a first date with people I met in person than with people online.
For those of you that would consider yourself too old to be searching online, don’t fool yourself: I have more friends in their 40s and 50s getting married thanks to dating websites than I have friends in their 20s or 30s. Sure, younger people may be looking just to date whereas older members are looking for a serious relationship. But, when you reach middle age, most of your friends are married and it can be a little more challenging to get your friends to introduce you to someone that is available.
I say give it a shot – what do you have to lose?
