Are You Ready to Date?

The Reality of Online Dating

• Easy Access: With a computer, anyone can find a date. Sign up, create a profile, and you're set.
• Misrepresentation: Many people aren't truthful online. This leads to mismatched expectations and wasted time.

Case Study: Misleading Profiles

• Dan and Linda: Exchanged emails but learned nothing significant about each other. Dan didn't know Linda's age, and Linda didn't know Dan lived with his girlfriend.
• Janice and Rob: Janice, a fitness enthusiast, was disappointed when Rob, who claimed to share her interests, turned out to be a couch potato.

Types of Daters

1. Recreational Daters: Enjoy the thrill of dating multiple people. They often hesitate to commit, always hoping for someone better.
2. Mission Daters: Serious about finding a partner. However, they can still be distracted by superficial traits.

The Importance of Character

• Character Over Looks: Many singles overlook character for superficial attributes. Yet, character is crucial for a lasting relationship.
• Advice from the Married: Happily married individuals often emphasize the importance of character in a partner.

Steps to Improve Your Dating Experience

1. Be Truthful:

   • Authenticity is key. Misrepresenting yourself only leads to disappointment.
   • Example: A client claimed to have no children in his profile, but in reality, he had three.

2. Ask the Right Questions:

   • Dig deeper in email exchanges. Ask about values, hobbies, and interests.
   • Verify details like age and employment to ensure consistency.

3. Discuss Important Issues:

   • Talk about what matters to you, whether it's family, travel, or lifestyle.
   • Shared values are essential for long-term compatibility.

4. Remember Your Goals:

   • If you're looking for love, focus on meaningful conversations.
   • Don't get distracted by the sheer number of singles. Trust your instincts.

Conclusion

Dating can be challenging, but by focusing on authenticity and character, you can improve your chances of finding a meaningful connection. Whether you're dating for fun or seeking a serious relationship, being honest and asking the right questions can help you find someone who truly aligns with your values.

Additional Resources

• Psychology Today on Online Dating
• Pew Research Center: Online Dating Statistics

For more insights and advice, consider exploring resources like Allie Ochs' book, "Are You Fit To Love?" or taking the Fit 2 Love! Test on her website.