Internet Dating Can Be a Scary Experience

There are many internet dating sites and it can be scary to start learning the process.    Everyone you see or talk to has a different opinion about what you should or should not do. Meeting someone for the first time can be a scary experience, especially if it is someone you met online and have not seen in person yet. Who knows what they could look like or if they are who they say they are? If you are going to try this, you MUST use good judgment. Meet in a public place, not at his or her place.  Make it a short-time commitment, such as a cup of coffee.  That gives an easy out to both of you if things aren't going well.

Like any dating, sometimes things don’t work out. One problem is that a person's profile could be completely fake. They could say they're an astronaut or a secret agent, when really they're just a bureaucrat in some city building.  I have had someone lie to me about their age by TWENTY years!

Don’t act as if you are TOO interested. This might make them think you are desperate.  And don't be too aloof because you might come off as DISinterested.  Hmmm - perhaps you should just be yourself!!  Give the relationship time. Do not ask for marriage on the first date or even the first few dates. You should wait at least a week before proposing! Valentine’s Day is a very busy day for online dates because everyone that is single wants a date for Valentine's Day except those of us who find that particular day to be a greeting-card-company conspiracy!

Like any other dating, it takes common sense, time, and being around each other. Take the precautions that you would normally take because you never know what a date could lead to. If the other person is not right for you, they might have a friend.  Or the two of you could end up as good friends.  Always be honest when you are listing your profile on the dating sites, because it will be easier.  Lies are too hard to keep straight after a while, don't you think?  The other person will know what to expect when they see you for the first time.  Dating can be scary at any time, but less so if you have become acquainted online before meeting.