Check out my podcast, Venus in September, on Anchor! https://anchor.fm/nikki1844
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/venus-in-september/id1585922094?i=1000538294069
https://open.spotify.com/episode/7bzHhcz8Z0As4qzT7yPa0N?si=k89MBKBrTsa0xbDwnA4mcQ&dl_branch=1
I’ve used dating apps/websites off and on for around 8-9 years to supplement my in person interactions. Of my at least 75-100 first dates, most have been from online websites/apps. From those dates, I’ve been in 3 relationships that started from online dating (including my current one).
So what are some of the good things about online dating? As an introvert, it is a good way to meet people in local and in different areas. I’ve been on some really good dates. I’ve also been able to date outside of my “type”.
There’s also the bad…I’ve had some horrible dates. I’ve had some guys not take rejection well. I’ve invested time in people who were not interested in the same thing. That can SUCK!!!
Here are some tips:
• Use 3 to 5 up-to-date photos including full body
• Keep your bio effective and concise
• Do not overshare personal information
• Make sure (as much as possible) that you and the person you are communicating with have similar intentions for being on the site
• Communicate with the person for at least a few days to a week on the site before taking your communication off-line
• When initially exchanging contact information, do not give out your personal cell phone number. Give the person a Google voice number, a WhatsApp contact or something similar.
• Do not send anyone money
• Google that man or a woman before meeting
• Do not let them pick you up from your house. Try to arrange for a Uber or a Lyft if you do not have your own transportation.
• Meet in a public setting when you feel comfortable. Do not let the person pressure you into meeting any sooner than that.
• Pay attention to behaviors during the date
• Don’t be discouraged if this person doesn’t work out or if you only go on one date.
• Keep your options open until you find someone who you really like and have formed some type of relationship with them or until you feel comfortable with ceasing communication with others
• Stay optimistic, there’s at least one lid for every pot
Suggested free websites
• Okcupid
• Tinder
• Bumble
Have you tried online dating?
I. TURNED. 30
As a refresher, let me start with just a little about myself. I am an AA woman. I work in research and tech. My Myers-Briggs personality type is INTJ. I am in a relationship. I am a Virgo. My interests include music, art, science, travel, public health and women’s issues.
So, what did I do during my birthday trip? My bf and I traveled to the Washington DC area which is one of my favorite places. We ate a bunch of amazing food. We ordered takeout from amazing places like Nandos and Souvlaki Bar. We tried short rib poutine and bao buns at other restaurants. We stumbled across some of the best pizza I’ve ever had in my life near Georgetown. My boyfriend tried Jeni’s ice cream and Georgetown cupcakes for the first time (which I already loved). I tried Limoncello❤️
We did some shopping at a few places including Pentagon Row, Crystal City Shops and the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City. We also “completed” the Saddlewood Saloon escape room at Bonds Escape Room Arlington.
Next, what did I learn in my 20s? I learned the following:
• Gratitude
• The importance of loving the people in your life fiercely while they are here
• Forgiveness
• Ridding myself of people and things that do not serve me
• Patience
• Boundaries
Last, what am I looking forward to in my 30s?
• Covid ending
• Watching my nieces/godbabies grow up
• Transitioning into a new level of friendship with my besties
• Growing my career
• Being less afraid
• Entering into a romantic partnership/marriage
• Potentially having children/adopting
• Traveling
• Paying off debt
So what have you learned or what are you looking forward to learning in your 30s?
1. The Brown Liquor Report
2. Ratchet & Respectable
3. Conversation Con Artists
4. Jade + X.D.
5. Here’s The Thing
6. The Read
7. Gettin’ Grown
What are some of your favorite podcasts?
Venus in September 