While isolation and uncertainty has dominated our social spaces, the pandemic has introduced opportunities and emotional pivots for new ways of connecting. This is a mysterious silver lining, albeit defined by privilege, but we’re here to figure out how to make the most out of the uncontrollable and learn from it.

On the dating front: crushing is different. Flirting is different. The ways in which we navigated hooking up, courting, romancing, everything outside and in between, are different. I don’t know about you, but it’s almost like all of the sensations and tricks I used to know and implement feel like they are no longer relevant in this new era. 

Last year, Bumble shared an excellent resource, Dating 101 in 2021, where they offered ideas and suggestions to make things feel a bit lighter. Dr. Carolina Pataky shares, “You’re going to make mistakes. No one is doing everything right. First, forgive yourself. And to ease some of that tension, go get yourself tested.” This is an unprecedented time for you and everyone around you and it’s important to remind yourself of that whenever, if ever, it feels like you’re the only one who has no idea how to responsibly navigate dating.

What is responsible, relevant and optimistic aspects of our evolving community is how we are learning to better navigate the current dating space:

🌸 There’s an emphasis on intentionality, which goes hand-in-hand with a focus on being selective.

🌸 Before meeting someone new, many have taken a step back to examine our values, needs and boundaries for the upcoming date. If this wasn’t an important part of preparing, it is now.

🌸 Vulnerability feels necessary. In a world where that veil has been lifted for many who haven’t felt it before, upfront honesty is so much easier to share with someone you don’t know very well. 

🌸 With many folks opting for virtual dates, you can’t help but take things slower.

🌸 It’s important to think through safe transportation options, checking in about social distancing and other pandemic precautions before, during and after the date. Finding out the best ways to engage so that you and your date both feel comfortable is a great introduction for healthy communication.