The Dos and Don’ts of Dating in 2020

Dating in 2020 is very different to what we called dating 20 years ago. Now we have apps so that we can meet people almost instantaneously and decide whether we like them or not before going out with them. We can get to know them by chatting to them for a while over text, see all of their social profiles, and pretty much make a snap judgement about whether this could be the right person for us. Of course, there are pros and cons to this. You can sort of make sure you’re not about to go out with a total weirdo (although you can never really know what a weirdo looks like), but it could take away some of the spontaneity and fun of just meeting up with someone for a drink in person and seeing what happens. It also means that people are much less likely to settle or put up with somebody because they have invested time into them and the relationship. As it’s easier to meet people and definitely accepted to end relationships however long they have been, people aren’t settling for any less than their ‘perfect’ person. 

If you’re getting back into dating after a hiatus, or even if this is your first rodeo, read on for the dos and don’ts of dating in 2020:

Do Meet Somewhere Public The First Few Times You Meet

When meeting somebody for the first time, do plan to meet somewhere in public for the first few times. It’s popular just to meet for coffee first, as you don’t need to realize someone isn’t for you within the first few minutes and then have to sit through a meal with them. If they pass the coffee test, then you can go out for food. Although it’s harder to do things like this in 2020, it’s better than heading to their apartment and not being able to get away should something not feel right. 

Don’t Forget To Let Someone Know Where You’re Going and Who With 

Always let a good friend or family member know where you’re going and who with. Keeping your private life private is fine, but as we said before, you never know what a weirdo looks like. 

Do Speak To Them On The Phone First 

Speaking to somebody on the phone first could help to ease your fears and confirm that this is a person you want to date. Using thechatlinenumbers gay lines is ok for a short term fix, but speaking to somebody you could actually be interested in in the long term is better. 

Don’t Talk More Than You Listen

Practice listening more than you talk. Be interested and ask questions. It makes a big difference. Don’t just wait for your turn to speak! 

Do Try To Be Yourself

It can be tough, but try to be as authentic as you can. 

Don’t Check Your Phone Constantly

Leave your phone in your bag! Ask your date to do the same. Just focus on one another. 

Do Practice Radical Self Love and Acceptance 

Make sure you’re comfortable with yourself before you start dating. You shouldn’t look to anyone for outside validation. 

Don’t Catfish 

Using very old or overly edited pictures is a bad move. Don’t catfish anybody. Be your real, authentic self and you’ll find the right person for you.