bobpbx said:
Anyway, once you do the date thing from going online, do you usually always look back at the relationship and say..."gee, that was worth it. It may not have worked out, but what a fine experience".
I've dated at least a dozen girls from online, but I've been doing it for a few years. I don't want that to sound like I'm a womanizer, because I'm the complete oposite. I want to find a good, solid, lasting relationship.
That being said, I have no regrets with any of the dates that I have been on. Overall, I think all of the dates were a great experience. You learn about yourself and also what other partners will want from you. Sometimes, I even regret losing touch with some people.
My advice to you if you decide to do it is:
1. Definitely post pics! I don't even bother looking at profiles without pics. To me, while looks aren't everything, there certainly has to be some sort of attraction. I think most people doing the online thing will agree with this.
2. Be COMPLETELY honest about yourself, even about the negatives. You'll only be hurting yourself in the long run as the matches you are given won't really be 'matches'.
3. Sense how the girl wants to take things. If she wants to take it slow, then by all means don't pressure her for a phone number, meeting up, etc. I think girls have it tougher doing the online thing as I think there are probably more guy 'freaks' out there than girl 'freaks'. Every girl that I dated had horror stories to tell of previous dates, but I didn't have any to tell.
4. Compare it to real - life dating. READ the profile. Just because someone is another pretty face, doesn't mean you are compatible. I think this is a big advantage over doing the 'bar thing' as you get to know some things about the person before going on that first date. However, leave some things open for discussion so you have something to talk about on that 'first date'.
5. Make your profile stand out! Everyone starts out with the same old boring, "I am not sure why I am here doing this, but I am sick of the bar scene and I am currently reading the DaVinci Code" :rofl: If you love the Pines, then put that along with your other interests. I've responded to and had people respond to me because of unique interests in a profile. Besides, it's a great ice-breaker anyway.
6. Don't be ashamed of it. Don't worry about what other people think about your online dating. If you meet the girl of your dreams, then who really cares how you met her? The main thing is that you DID meet her!
7. It does work. I've seen lots of good come from it from many people that I know. My friend is getting married in September to a girl he met on match.com
Anyway, press on and good luck to you!