Don’t Let Quarantine Keep You from Dating
It goes without saying that times are pretty weird right now, making it seem like dating is out of the question. However, even with stay-at-home orders, it’s still possible to keep the romance alive and the connections going.
If you’re riding this thing out solo, don’t worry! We’ve compiled a list of tips that will help you take advantage of the digital dating space, as well as how to take this time to prepare for when in-person dating is allowed again. Keep reading to find out how you can find love, even when socially distanced.
Create a Profile that Stands Out
There’s without a doubt an influx of other singles on dating apps right now all trying to win the hearts of others. This means that the competition is high and that dating app users are going through hundreds of different profiles each day. Ensure your profile stands out by using quality photos that show who you are.
It’s easier to get a sense of who someone is by seeing what they like, rather than reading about it. A picture’s worth a thousand words, right? Make sure there is at least one clear photo of you by yourself too, so the person looking at your profile doesn’t have to guess who they’ll be talking to.
In your bio clearly state what you’re looking for, so that the other person involved doesn’t waste any time just to find out that you both have different intentions. Add something into your bio that prompts a response from the swiper like “tell me if you’re a cat or a dog person,” or “what’s something unique about you?”
This will encourage the match to reach out to you first. Stay away from embellishing your profile too much as when it comes time to meet in person the truth will come out.
Make Connections
We’re lucky to live in a time where technology keeps us connected, even when thousands of miles apart. There are numerous dating apps available that fit different niche audiences-- from apps for just Jewish individuals to those not looking for anything serious.
Look into which app best fits your needs and start swiping! Just be careful with how you word your first online dating message since it will greatly affect your first impression. A benefit of communicating through messaging is that you have the ability to thoroughly think about your responses, so take your time when it comes to saying the right things and do a little research.
On the flip side, don’t take days to respond or pretend to be interested in something you’re not. Just be you and there’s no pressure to keep talking if you aren’t getting the right vibe!
Go on Dates
Don’t let the absence of physical dating get you down! Digital dates are totally possible and the internet is full of unique ideas. There are browser extensions that let you simultaneously stream movies with others while in different locations and competitive online games are available too.
You could even use online video services to cook together or enjoy a cocktail. Meeting someone through a video call might be awkward at first, but the good news is that it’s easier to end the date early since you can fake a shaky Wi-Fi connection.
Virtual dating is also a great way to maintain human interaction and will make you feel happier during this time in isolation. You can talk with your potential partner about their dream date for when this is all over and then start planning for the perfect night when you can take them out in person!
Prepare Your Appearance
Lounging in your pajamas and occasionally brushing your hair during quarantine is something we’re all behind right now. However, it might be a little difficult to break this habit when the time comes. Invest in your appearance now, so when quarantine is over, you’ll be the best version of yourself.
Take digital workout courses to tone your muscles, contact your barber to get on their list for when they’re able to give fresh cuts again and look for online deals to enhance your wardrobe. Take care of any acne by sticking to a skincare routine and maintain your quarantine beard by using a beard grooming kit.
While everyone else will be coming out of quarantine frantically panicking to get their appearance up to par, you’ll be ahead of the game and getting dates right and left.
Practice Self-Care
Take this time in self-isolation to practice some self-care. Taking care of your mind will help you be able to make more meaningful connections with others. Self-care looks different to everyone, so experiment with what works best for you and create a routine that you can keep up with after quarantine is over.
Try meditating in the morning when you first wake up to relax your mind, take breaks throughout the day to do some deep breathing, and listen to podcasts to spark motivation and inspiration. There are plenty of books and resources out there that discuss the importance of self-care and how beneficial it is to your confidence and everyday life.
Check Your Sexual Health
If you meet someone during your virtual dating efforts, make sure you’re prepared for when you can meet in person by taking care of your sexual health now. Many adults feel as though their sex-ed in high school wasn’t as good as it could have been, so check your knowledge and then start implementing some changes.
It is recommended that individuals get tested for STDs every time they switch sexual partners, at the very least, and before entering a monogamous relationship. Also be sure to stock up on contraception and any medication you may need, like a prescribed daily ED treatment that helps produce and maintain erections. This will ensure you’re ready to start getting it on again when the time comes.
Above all, just make sure you’re staying true to yourself during this time. It can be easy to pretend to be someone you’re not when behind a screen, but remember that this won’t last forever and you don’t want to present a false version of yourself now.
Take care of yourself and know that it’s okay if you don’t want to date right now, there’s plenty of other stuff to do during self-isolation!