It’s springtime and you’re ready to don your flirty skirt and espadrilles and go out with the cute new man you met. But wait – enter coronavirus with its far-reaching implications that have ground many aspects of our modern lives, including dating, to a halt. How on earth are you supposed to meet new dating prospects when you’re supposed to stay 6 feet away from anyone outside your immediate family? And where are you supposed to meet people when bars are closed and some restaurants haven’t even opened yet? Nothing says sexy like an N95 mask, right?
What if it’s not all doom and gloom when it comes to courtship during a global pandemic? Here are some ways this time of dating could actually work out in your favor.
Love in the Time of Corona
If you haven’t yet, now is a great time to get online. Fire up your dating apps and see who’s worthy of a swipe to the right. Consider that there might actually be MORE potential suitors looking to find a match online right now since we are all in the same quarantine boat. Sure, you might have to sift through a lot of duds but it’s totally worth it if you find a catch.
Whichever way you meet your new friend, take your dates online too. You don’t just have to talk on the phone or FaceTime. This can be a really fun and creative time. Play a game like Pictionary or Truth or Dare over Zoom. Watch a movie together on Netflix Party. Order delivery from the same restaurant and have dinner and drinks together. You get the drift. These ideas are simple and fun and (bonus) don’t break the bank. An added perk is that if it’s not going well, you can just make up an excuse like your internet isn’t working, and then walk a few feet to the comfort of your couch. No waiting for the bill, driving home, getting blisters from your shoes. You could meet a lot of people and go on many early dates without even leaving your home. But please change out of your sweat pants.
Virtual dates are more convenient and likely cheaper. They also force you to slow down and really consider the other person beyond their physical appearance and your attraction to them. Take advantage of the face-to-face time and be really curious about them. Ask great questions and listen to the answers. Observe. You’re less likely to get googley-eyed from sexual chemistry when separated by screens, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. By the time you do meet, imagine how amazing that first hug (or kiss) will be. Probably much better than the awkward first-date hug you would’ve had outside Olive Garden. Just sayin’.
Then What?
After you’ve had several dates online, you might decide to meet in person in public (Andy said it was OK, y’all). The usual go-to date spots might be closed or limited, so draw on your creativity here, too. Could a picnic with wine and cheese be fun? How about playing Frisbee golf or paddle-boating?
Before you decide not to date again until 2022, consider that this time, while unusual, does not preclude dating altogether. Remember that everyone who wants to date is in the same situation as you are. They want to connect, and most will be heading to the virtual dating space since it’s difficult to physically come within 6 feet of a stranger these days. Take advantage of the convenience and uncostliness of virtual dates and let your playfulness shine. Savor the time to truly get acquainted with your new interest, and when you do meet in IRL for the first time, it will be all the more magical!
If you’d like to discuss how I can help you date with creativity during coronavirus (or any time, really), please call me to set up a free consultation!