Savvy Dating Tips For a Post(ish)-COVID World
Dating definitely looks different these days, but one thing that hasn’t changed is that it is so savvy to make sure you are staying safe while doing so. We thought then that we would share our top 6 tips on precautions you should take in this new age.
1. Abstaining from dating completely to avoid risking exposure to COVID-19 is not necessary. In fact, it might even be detrimental to us singles’ emotional well-being. According to Jennifer Berman, MD, MS, a specialist in female sexual medicine, “We are hardwired to connect with other people. It is in our DNA to connect. Research has shown that the single most important factor for people who live the longest was connections to other people. families, friends, and community.” Instead, try being more selective when deciding who to go out with. Know what is important for you in what you are looking for, and find out beforehand whether the person you are considering going on a date with has those qualities.
2. Ask the new go-to yet very important question, “did you get the jab?” Now, I know this is a controversial topic at best, but whether you believe in getting the vaccine or not, it is important to know if your potential suitor is on the same page or not. Trust me, I speak from experience that it is very uncomfortable to find out mid-date whether the person is #TeamModerna or #antivaxxer.
3. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of technology! We know that days now can be endless Zoom meetings, but meeting first virtually is a great way to see if you have things in common and can hold a pleasant conversation before meeting in person and potentially risking exposure.
4. By now, those of us on the dating circuit using any app to meet somebody know to MEET IN A PUBLIC PLACE for the first time. That can never be stressed enough. However, not considering the venue further is even more important. I personally now make sure to ask the following questions:
Is the place we are meeting outside?
If not outside, does it tend to be packed with people (if so, no go)?
Does the location have in place proper protocols that follow current expert organization guidelines (e.g. CDC/WHO)?
Can I get there safely in low-risk transportation?
Bonus: Answering the above questions might also have the benefit of coming up with new and creative date ideas that break you out of the standard dinner/coffee/drinks routine. Picnic in the park? Yes please! Stroll along the beach? I’m in! Bike ride to an outdoor market? You betcha!
5. Communication is key, and making sure it is mutual is even moreso! Being able to share openly whether you have been exposed to somebody who has tested positive, or who is showing symptoms, of COVID-19 and vice-versa is imperative to keeping yourself and others safe. Discuss before meeting whether your potential date is willing to have an open line of communication two weeks after your meetup so that this information can be shared with one another.
6. You should do this always, but trust your instincts. If you feel something is just not quite right, or if you feel uncomfortable for any reason, don’t go! Those spidey-senses are a great tool for protecting yourself from potentially harmful situations, COVID-19 included.
We know that dating can be challenging in the best of times, so we will leave you with a last, overarching savvy dating tip - stay positive! Easier said than done, but if you stay positive and make smart and safe decisions, you never know what awesome people you might meet along your dating journey!
Photo by Mikel Parera
