Swipe Right on Yourself First!

🤝 Hi Digital Travelers,

Welcome back to your weekly dose of "I-have-no-idea-what-I-am-doing”!

Today let’s talk about a topic we've all Googled at least once, how to hide a bod- I mean how to date.

This topic is crucial in the digital age as we have more options than at any other time in history.

You can now download any dating app and quickly swipe through 100+ people with no problem. Which sounds great on paper, but actually puts us face to face with the paradox of choice.

So, grab that half-empty wine bottle or your full-on protein shake, and let's get into it!

👾 Adulting Lesson

What is the paradox of choice?

Great question you curious reader you!

The paradox of choice refers to the counterintuitive notion that having more options can actually lead to increased anxiety, indecision, and dissatisfaction, rather than providing the freedom and well-being that we expect from a plethora of choices.

The sheer volume of possibilities can lead to "analysis paralysis," where the fear of making the wrong choice prevents one from making any choice at all.

Now picture throwing this paradox into the already stressful decision of choosing a partner.

Really adds a layer of complexity.

So how do we navigate this messy world of dating apps, mixed signals, and awkward coffee dates?

Know Thyself Before You Wreck Thyself:

Before you start swiping or accept another blind date from your Aunt, take a moment to look inward.

What are your passions, your pet peeves, your goals?

By understanding what you want out of a relationship, you'll have a clearer idea of what to look for in a partner, and what you can offer in return.

This can be looked at as your standard.

Whenever you have a clearer understanding of yourself and what you want, you chip away at the overwhelming volume of candidates.

Communication is Key, No Really:

We're not just talking about whether you're a good texter or not.

Effective communication goes far beyond that. Learn to listen, to express your thoughts and needs clearly, and to ask open-ended questions.

This means laying out your expectations. Want a serious relationship? Want no commitment?

Tell them upfront.

This allows them to make their decision and not feel slighted if each of your goals don’t align six months down the road.

It’s not easy, but it’s right.

A lasting relationship is built on the foundation of open and honest communication—without it, you're building a house of cards.

Compromise, but Don’t Settle:

Finding someone who fits your list of requirements to a T is about as likely as winning the lottery while getting struck by lightning.

It's essential to compromise on the small stuff, like choosing a restaurant or deciding what movie to watch.

Remember, you are two complex individuals with the freedom to make any choice you want.

However, never, ever compromise on your core values, be it your stance on marriage, children, or what direction the toilet paper should hang.

Conclusion

The world of dating isn't just about candlelit dinners and awkward small talk over coffee; it's a multi-layered, complex landscape.

By understanding yourself, learning to communicate your needs, and knowing when to compromise, you're well on your way to navigating this maze like a pro.

📝 Actionable Advice

Know Thyself: Take an evening off from social engagements and write down a list of what you're looking for in a relationship—and what you're not.

Communicate: The next time you find yourself confused or anxious about a relationship issue, avoid subtweeting and pick up the phone to discuss it openly.

Compromise, but Don’t Settle: During your next relationship talk, bring up the big issues like future goals and values, and find out where each of you stands before making any big decisions. Call it your “intentional time”.

🎙️ Quote of the Week

✌️Closing Time

And that's a wrap, Cupid's little helpers!

May your arrows fly straight, and may your swipes be ever in your favor.

Remember, the world of dating is like an open-book test where the questions keep changing, but that doesn't mean you can't ace it.

Keep on adulting, and if you get lost, just remember, that even GPS needs a moment to find its way sometimes.

Cheers,

Mike