Right now you're probably thinking, "Hmm, wouldn't online dating be the appropriate and convenient way for an introvert to meet new people?" My answer would have to be no. Just the thought of being on display like a bookshelf and others rating you simply at their first impression. I am far from perfect and know that most of my pictures have some lame face, display my lack of traveling experience, and also my lack of a toned abdomen.That being said, here are some of my thoughts on online dating:
- You don't really get to know a person. On average, I'd say most people on a dating website or app give each picture about one or two seconds of thought before making a decision of whether or not they might be a fit for them. While I will give some value to attractiveness, it may be far too overrated in comparison to other qualities. We might as well be dating a picture of someone if that is all that matters.
- You can't really tell if someone is being genuine. The chances of most guys being bartenders, college graduates, and business owners seems a little escalated. Sure, those guys exist, but why does it seem that most guys think so highly of themselves and make an effort to appear so successful and prideful. Drive and ambition are great, but sometimes I'd be more interested in the "average" guy that has a story to tell and some humility to spare.
- The thought of going on a date with someone you don't know is intimidating. Okay, so maybe it isn't exactly a blind date, but close enough. It's basically two people meeting up with the history of liking/swiping/giving a thumbs up to their picture or profile. While there might be a little bit of conversation exchanged, it is nonetheless extremely awkward and would make me feel like I am on display. I'm used to casually meeting someone through friends and making small talk for a while before the thought of a date is even considered. To meet someone that has no mutual friends in common and may be in a completely different path in life is overwhelming and anxiety-inducing.
- You find a lot of "acquaintances" on the site and hope they didn't see your profile. Being honest, I came across way too many people that I "knew." Some were guys that friends had offered to set me up with. Others were guys I attended high school with. One guy happened to try and set me up with his "friend" while in college -- Upon joining him for what I thought was a double date, he revealed to me that his friend was actually himself. Or the time I came across a guy that I knew was married to an acquaintance. These just solidify my reasons for wanting to avoid any sort of online dating... I'd have better chances at speed dating. At least you have a few minutes to talk to each person and don't have to leave paper trail online.
- The amount of really lame pick-up lines. No, not every woman wants to enjoy cuddling with you after you get done with your shift at a night club. We don't always like long walks on the beach. Some guys even make requests -- "if you don't like travel, don't even consider messaging me" or "if you don't have tattoos, then just keep looking." I get placing value on certain things, but we can't all be your dream woman and if I see "hook up" anywhere on a profile, I run in the other direction. I'm an adult, not a teenager looking for a fling.