If you’re single and in the dating world, the last year may have proven frustrating for you. After all, how do you navigate a pandemic world in which social distancing plays an immense role for the greater good? How do you get to know people when it may not be safe to meet in person?
Whether you’ve been trying to date during the pandemic or are just thinking about it, there are certain things to keep in mind. Knowing this will help you during the confusing, uncertain world of dating during the time of COVID-19.
Dating Apps
The pandemic has changed how many people approach online dating. Perhaps you’ve already noticed this in your own life.
If you’re like some, you’ve had more time on your hands than you did pre-pandemic. You may be working from home (with no commute) and have severely restricted your social life. Regular activities such as going to the gym, your favorite coffee spot, bars, and performances have been put on hold. Traveling is out of the question.
As a result, you and many others have been able to devote more attention to your online dating efforts. The extra time and the pandemic have led many to think more deeply about their lives and what they want, including meaningful relationships.
Because of these factors, you may find yourself being more intentional about online dating. Your approach to or perspective on dating may have changed. If the pandemic means that you’ve been seeing less of your friends, conversations with potential dates may take on more importance as a social outlet. You can find yourself getting to know them well before you even meet in person.
Conversations
Before meeting a date in person, it’s really important to talk with them about their approach to the pandemic. Ask what protocols they’re following: masks, social distancing, avoiding crowded places? Knowing if they’re working from home or working in a large office can also make a difference. Do they have minimal interactions with others or many interactions?
It’s also important to evaluate any health issues that make either of you, or someone you live with, more prone to severe complications from COVID. Protecting the health of the most vulnerable is something you’ll want to keep in mind.
It’s easy to forget about just how many people someone can come into contact with. Even if your date follows precautions, they may have roommates or family members who don’t. Make sure you have an accurate picture.
All of this may feel nosy or intrusive, but given the enormity of the pandemic, your date should be understanding of the questions. If they’re not, and if their approach is radically different from yours, you may want to reconsider your interest in the individual.
Physical Contact
Once you’ve discussed the practical ways in which each of you are minimizing infection risk, you can think about meeting in person. Consider having early dates outdoors where you can comfortably socially distance. Take a walk, go ice skating, or find a park bench (or two) where you can chat from six feet apart.
If you’re interested in developing a deeper relationship, going to restaurants or other indoor events where you can wear masks and be relatively uncrowded is a next step. Take the time to really get to know this person before going mask-less.
Dating during the pandemic isn’t impossible by any means. But if you’re struggling to navigate dating life or a new relationship, keep counseling in mind. Please call or email my office to find out more or go to Couples Therapy.