I’m no stranger to online dating. Five years ago I signed up for a three-month stint, along with some girlfriends (solidarity, sista!). I met a handful of nice guys, but nothing that turned into a relationship. Then last summer I signed up with a different site when they offered a killer deal on a six-month promotion. I ended up meeting a few guys in real life, but none of those went beyond a first date.
Even though my online dating adventures didn’t end with meeting the man of my dreams, I am still a fan of the whole process. So if you’re thinking about trying it, or trying it again, here are three reasons why you should. And if you’re looking for a deal, check out ChristianCafe.com and use the promo code BOUNDLESS to get some extra days to your free trial.
1. Everybody’s doing it. When I think about my various circles of friends, I know of more people than not who have tried online dating. In fact, it was meeting my friend’s fiancé, whom she met online, that convinced me to try it last summer. It’s such a common part of today’s dating scene, so you are in good company. In fact, some of the most outgoing, social, extroverted people I know have done online dating. Even people I would think would have no trouble meeting people and making connections, have given it a whirl. I can guarantee you won’t be the only one to try it.
2. It expands your circle. Sometimes I’ve felt stuck in a rut in terms of meeting new people. One of the benefits of online dating is that you get outside of your usual social circles, which might be a major factor in why you’re single. Ultimately God is in charge of our relationship status, and online dating is only one way, out of many, we might meet someone. But if you live in a small town or don’t have a lot of time to meet new people, an online dating site is a great way for God to put someone in your path whom you might not meet otherwise.
3. Practice makes perfect. Whether you meet 10 dates in real life or only communicate with one match, you’ll learn more about yourself, communication and how to have good conversations. If you’re shy or haven’t dated much, online dating is a great opportunity to learn how to get to know someone in a non-threatening way. If you’ve dated a lot, it’s a chance to keep improving as you figure out how to ask interesting, thought-provoking questions or how to plan a fun, creative first date.
Have you tried online dating? What factors influenced your decision? And check back next week for my thoughts on not being an awkward online dater.
