Simple, Inexpensive Ways to Find Love During a Recession

The search for love is one of the most important things in life. Being in a loving, healthy relationship makes life buzz with renewed energy and happiness. But with the current financial crisis, increasing layoffs, and most people adhering to very strict budgets, how can someone find true love in such gloomy economic times without spending a fortune on a professional matchmaker?

Here are seven inexpensive and simple ways to jump start your search for love during a recession:

Eight minute dating

Eight minute dating is a fun and inexpensive way to meet new people. It's a no pressure, fun, party like atmosphere that makes the most nervous of daters relax and loosen up. The cost is under $40.00 and you'll actually have eight or more dates in one night. It's a better investment than an internet site because you're guaranteed a date with a real person! Who knows? You could meet the person of your dreams. Check out their website at www.8minutedating.com.

Participate in your alumni association

This is a simple, cost effective way to keep your social life and networking connections thriving. You'll have the chance to mingle with fellow alums, make new friends and maybe even find a new romance or rekindle an old one.

Volunteer

You can find sincere, kind, and passionate folks leading volunteer efforts. If you feel inspired to do more to help the environment, feed the homeless, or even teaching someone how to read, get involved and find a volunteer group near you. To find a local group check out www.volunteermatch.org . They offer a complete listing of volunteer opportunities.

Don't be a creature of habit, do something new

Have you always wanted to join a local book club, learn yoga or a foreign language or maybe even take a self defense class at the local YMCA? If you've always wanted to try something new, now is the time to do it. Taking a class and getting out of your comfort zone is the perfect way to meet someone who shares your passions and interests.

Meetup.com

Meetup.com is an excellent website which offers a cornucopia of groups based on interests. You can find a local group within your community that caters to your passion for country music, tennis, fine dining and anything in between. And if a group has not been formed yet, you can create one. There are also meetups for single professionals, Christian singles, and single parents. It's a cool way to meet interesting people who share the same interests and it's free to join.

Join a spiritual group or church

People who attend church or spiritual groups tend to be more friendly and open. I've met some wonderful people while attending a meditation group in my neighborhood. Do a Google search for local churches and groups in your area.

Take advantage of free trial internet dating offers

Temporary free trial memberships are a good way to get a feel for a particular website to see if it will work for you. If not, you don't lose any money and you can move on to the next site. There are plenty to choose from!

Remember to participate in life and get involved. Most importantly, keep your eyes and your heart open for love while enjoying the single life.