Relationship Guide: Dating in Digital age and 7 tips to build genuine connections

In the digital age, the way that we connect and form relationships has shifted incredibly. With dating apps, social media, and instant messaging, meeting new people is easier than before, but finding authentic connections can seem harder. We can connect at lightning speed, and while there is certainly value in convenience, building intimacy and lasting relationships calls for more precision and deliberation.

The following will provide you with the frameworks for navigating the world of modern dating while still cultivating authentic and lasting connections.

While there are unlimited potential matches, the digital world has drawbacks:

Choice Overload – When you have limitless profiles, it can be hard to concentrate on one connection.

Surface Level – You can't help but make quick swipes and short online chats with some people that can't replace a face to face meeting.

Ghosting – Dating online Dr. Philpoints out that dating online has made it more common to abruptly cut something off with someone because texting or going offline makes it more convenient.

Trust – Unlike meeting someone for the first person face to face or being introduced through a friend where you have a different context, there is now a huge gap of trust in online dating because of what people choose to disclose or omit.

While there are now ways to navigate the hurdles of digital dating and meet potential partners and while building relationships off the digital world, there are still ways to create authentic and meaningful connections. All it takes is a different approach.

1. Know What You Want

Before you jump into digital dating, think about what it is that you want. Do you want to find a serious romantic relationship, a friend, or simply date casually? When you define what you want to get from digital dating, you can be more successful in finding others who have similar desires.

2. Focus on Quality and Not Quantity

Instead of swiping through every profile, and getting into a number of conversations at once, try to focus on fewer conversations that are more meaningful. Focus on people who are actually engaging with you and taking the time to get to know you.

3. Be Real and Be Honest

There is no need to create a perfect profile. Be honest. Be honest about your interests, what your values are, and what your expectations are. This way, your connections are made based on who you really are and not just who you want to be.

4. Move Beyond Texting

Texting provides a quick and easy outlet to communicate, but it rarely leads to deeper relationships. Try a phone call or a video chat instead of texting or send a long voicemail instead of texting. Conversations in person foster more trust and better compatibility.

5. Have Real Conversations

There are things that matter and you can talk about those things instead of redundant small talk or talking about nothing. Talking about things that you're passionate about, your dreams, your values, and your experiences will help you understand much more about the other person.

6. Establish Healthy Boundaries

Online dating can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it is important to set boundaries on how much time to spend on dating apps, if you find yourself oversharing, and taking breaks when necessary.

7. Take Things Offline When the Time is Right

A real relationship takes place off the computer and phone. Meeting in person solidifies the relationship built online if you're having strong exchanges. Ensure that you pick safe and comfortable places for your first meetup.