Thoughts on Online Dating

For some people online dating is the answer to being stuck in a romantic rut. But do these sites really work or are they just a temporary distraction? Sure, there might be some match.com success stories, at least according to their commercials but there is a lot to be said for regular old fashioned communication.

There are many reasons why online dating can be a waste of your time and more importantly, money. It is quite amazing that people can capitalize on other's failures in the love department and even more pathetic and shocking that people buy into it. It says a lot about people's lack of common sense if they pay to do something they can do anywhere, anytime for free. Paying to meet people is like paying to breathe.

Despite the testimonies, if your soul mate is out there waiting for you, he's probably not waiting behind a computer screen. People don't stop to think that more than half of the people frequenting online dating sites are hundreds of times worse than the scum that roam the streets. These are people who likely have problems communicating because if you can't even talk to someone at a bar or mall to get a date and you use online dating sites to find love, chances are your social skills are not all there.

This is one of fundamental problems of online dating. If you can't even strike up a conversation with a co-worker or friend, when things get rough in your relationship, you probably won't be too thrilled about discussing important matters with your partner. Online dating not only accepts this kind of behavior, but in a way encourages it. People who should be out learning to interact with people are given the opportunity to reinforce their antisocial behavior.

A lot of advocates for online dating tell you that those networking sites help you find a mate that you have a lot in common with. I'm sure I have a lot in common with many people who I would sooner drop dead than date. In fact, I'm sure I wouldn't even want to be friends with some of them. Shared interests does not a good relationship mean. There are many successful couples that share a lot in common and that is what bonds them and for every one of those couples, there are just as many that are completely uninterested in each other's preferences or occupations. When it comes right down to it, shared interests does not necessarily create a loving connection.

So next time you want to go surf the web for a potential mate, take that money and go buy a stranger a drink. Get out from behind your computer and really get yourself out there.