Hey, It’s Okay… If You’ve Never Been On a Date

Hi everyone! It’s time for another Hey, It’s Okay… and this month’s topic is similar to last month’s. In February I discussed being single (CLICK HERE to read that post) and I was overwhelmed by all the supportive and reassuring comments I received. One in particular stuck with me and it was from Lizzi over at Thoughts and Things. She commented, “Do you date? It terrified me when I was a teenager but I think it’s good for the soul. Gives you good nerves, makes the heart race, challenges me to keep being a confident talker. Also tests my ability to feign interest in many topics but that’s a whole other issue.” and it got me thinking, hang on a minute I could turn that into a post.

Not only have I been single all my life but I’ve also NEVER been on a romantic date of any description. Part of me worries and is a little nervous what dating is like and the ‘rules’ of dating and how to date but those feelings I have in regards to relationships as well. Dating to me is often portrayed as being lots of fun, involves plenty of flirting and very easy when in reality, it’s probably not. The thought of meeting someone new for the first time can send people into a state of panic, “Do I look okay?”, “Will he like me?” and ultimately make them afraid of being themselves. With time and experience, I’m sure those feeling will pass. You shouldn’t have to put on an act to try and please another person. It’s clichéd but being yourself really is the most beautiful thing.

If you’re having trouble finding people to date or where to find people to date, you are not alone! There is nothing wrong with having standards and qualities you find attractive in a person, just don’t let that cloud your judgement. At the same time never feel like you have to settle for something you’re not sure about or don’t want. As for where to find people to date, I have this mindset that I could meet anybody at any time and I want to make sure the impression I give is a good one and I’m putting my best foot forward. I don’t desperately try to get anyone’s attention but if someone does happen to look my way I know that I’m being true to myself and treating everyone with kindness and respect. This relates to all situations from me dealing with customers at work to spending time with friends and family.

One of my favourite quotes sums it up perfectly:

My conversation with Lizzi also made me think about my attitudes towards online dating. Over the past couple of years apps like Tinder have become more popular. Personally, I have never used Tinder but I have friends that do. I might be old fashioned in the way I think but I’ve always imagined meeting someone and having them sweep me off my feet. If I was chatting to someone online I’d always be wondering if they were telling the truth and how many other people they were chatting to. It’s wrong of me to make assumptions like that but I tend to stay away from Tinder etc. for that reason. I’m not saying I will never use dating apps or other people shouldn’t but it’s a personal choice. There are genuine people out there trying to find friendship and find love but there’s also not.

By fate it seems, I came across dating guru Matthew Hussey when writing this post. Not only does he have the most adorable British accent (and is pretty handsome) I have learnt so much and found his videos so helpful. His thoughts are real and honest and make a whole lot of sense. He gives you tips on dating, early stages of a relationship, how to keep a relationship going and a bunch of other useful information. He’s not afraid to get intimate and personal and the videos are very entertaining to watch. I’ve linked a few of my personal favourites below:

1. What You Should NEVER Do On a Date With a Guy
2. Get Any Guy To Approach You With This 1 Simple Trick
3. The 7 Most Unromantic Romantic Gestures

As always, thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post! Do you have any dating tips you’d like to share? Pop them in the comments below!