Love...A simple, four letter word with the utmost complex meaning. Each and every one of us has the desire to be loved and have the need for romance. It's a natural part of our existence - everyone needs love.
However, with all the work, hassles and distractions we experience day to day, not all of use have the leisure time to find that one individual, or someone to fall in love with.
Let's face it, not everyone has the time to linger at night clubs and bars every single week. Not only does clubbing and bars take up a lot of your time, it's also draining, physically and financially.
Of course, there are many other options to meet a man you might like...Speed dating, dating agencies, newspaper columns, coffee houses, phone dating and, of course, online dating.
This guide will help you focus on the simplest, least expensive and most convenient ways to get to know as many quality men as you like...all from the comfort of your own home!
This guide will assist you find a good man, a gentleman, who will love you for the rest of your life. This guide is for women who are looking for a lasting, long-term relationship, not a one night stand or simply casual sex - which is actually not that hard to get for any independent woman.
Ok, now that we got that out of the way, let's focus a little on exactly what this guide is all about: Online Dating.
Unlike conventional dating, online dating is not expensive, safe and totally comfortable. You don't need to spend thousands on clothing, dinners and nights out, don't need to spend time with anyone you don't like and can pick, choose and get to know as many men as you like from the comfort of your own home.
On a regular date, you get to meet and spend time with just one man. In the online dating world, you can literally chat and get to know 100 men before you even meet them in person.
You can sit around in your robe, while eating popcorn and still meet the man of your dreams. You can get to know men that interest you and you only need to actually meet a man face-to-face when you are absolutely sure you would like to get to know him better.
According to experts on dating, the principles to conscious dating are:
Realize who you are and what you want by having a clear vision of what life means/holds for you.
Set and achieve a "goal" by developing a workable relationship plan.
Be selective and prepared to take the onus for the choices you make.
Try and attain a balance between the heart and mind-- emotions and sensibility.
Use the "law of attraction" to your benefit.
Hone your relationship skills and knowledge.
Make use of well meaning support by creating a support group around you.
Win by being assertive, realistic, and honest-say "no" firmly and when you decide "yes" then stick by your decision. Set down boundaries for yourself-keeps the going clear and focused.
Be a successful and fulfilled single -never put life on hold or make finding a relationship/man the sole purpose of your life.
What Are the Main Advantages of Online Dating?
You never have to meet anyone in person during an online encounter...which can help you avoid shyness and feeling uncomfortable. You can be as sexy, funny and weird as you want to be without actually getting embarrassed (same goes for the men you'll be chatting with).
Also, you choose the type of guy you want to talk to, or meet with. You can simply set your standards and find a man that meets them instead of just taking a stab in the dark.
Instead of hoping that we will bump into the perfect man on the street, or get hooked up with the man of our dreams. We can stop dreaming, take action and simply use online dating as a tool to find the perfect guy (or close to perfect) for ourselves. I know this does not sound as romantic as some of the other options, but it is simply the most realistic one.
The overwhelming success of online dating sites is proof that the "realistic" choice is a lot more effective than simply waiting for Mr. Right. And the fact that dating sites are helping millions of people find true love and romance is proof that just because Online Dating is not something most people fantasize and read about in novels, it is the new, more realistic way to meet the man of your dreams.
So, if you are "old fashioned" I suggest you get caught up with the new times.
According to experts, dating sites have become the "good fairy" of the modern world. They are helping millions of men and women find fruitful relationships. It is using sophisticated technology to further romance.
All you need to know is what you want: long term relationship, friendship, fun and excitement etc. What ever it is you want, chances are there are dating sites that fit your needs.
So, if you know what you want and are anxious to "get out there" from the comfort of your own home, let's get started!
Chapter 2: Online Dating for Independent Women
O
nline dating lends time flexibility and a various degree of secrecy...It's really up to you how much or how little you attempt to locate "Mr. Right". You can proceed to learn more about the individual or you can cut the relationship short and move on with no emotional strings attached. The cyber dating world, like the real world, is made up of all kinds of unique individuals - serious, funny, kinky, eccentric, as well as dangerous...
It is important to approach online dating like a pro---a management professional. The Internet is full of opportunities to find a soul mate but one must do it intelligently and with great care.
Modern technology coupled with dating innovations will help you customize your search for the "ideal" man of your dreams. You will be able to sift through thousands of eligible men to find one that matches your needs. A study in the UK revealed that there was a success rate of approximately 94%. Believe it or not there are more than 700+ online dating sites on the Internet and it is a growing business.
As women and men become more computer savvy, socializing on the net is gaining popularity.
Matchmaking on the net is today becoming innovative with videos, live voice, instant messaging, and so on.
The wonderful world of online dating allows you to:
Read all about a person and his likes and dislikes in a profile-one does not have to meet the man time and again to glean a small bit of insight into him.
Specify clearly what you are seeking.
Matchmaking services will help you narrow down a choice by using compatibility rankings and questionnaires.
The online service will mail you each day many "possible" profiles for consideration. To be 'efficient' in your quest you would need to write down criteria of your concept of Mr. Right.
Commonly used search options are: profession, location, age, height, physical characteristics, lifestyle, birth sign, and hobbies.
Don't be afraid, online dating is a stress free method of meeting people for fun, friendship, and love. You are the one to decide what kind of relationship you are seeking-a temporary one or a long term one; whether you want commitment or just a casual relationship.
Set your own limits or boundaries and keep to them-decide no sex until I known the man well and follow the dictum. Because a man is dashing and drop dead handsome and has charmed the 'boots off you," don't jump into bed with him-wait until you are sure that's what you want.
By using your computer with the click of your mouse you can explore a world of opportunities. Just 10 minutes on any search engine ---Yahoo, Google, or Alta Vista -and you will have access to:
Dating sites.
Articles discussing different concerns that plague all of us-from makeovers, to what so say, to dating ideas, coping with rejection and so on.
Plenty of advice, tips, as well as "ask a question" sites.
At first, online dating may seem gigantic or intimidating. There are so many choices - the question that will crowd your mind is...
"Which one should I choose?"
First create a budget and decide how much you want to invest on online dating. Some sites charge a one-time fee while others a recurring monthly fee. A few are free. Second, do some research and find out whether anyone known to you has used a site and what their experience was. Third, read an online dating guide -most of these provide valuable information. Then, set aside quality time to 'check out" sites thrown up by search engines...do a personal survey of what each offers.
There are special "niche sites" catering to specific requirements like religious affiliations, sexual preferences, political beliefs and so on. So, if you do have any preferences that you are particular about you must look for sites that offer such choices.
Jot down the pros and cons of a few sites that you are inclined towards and check out the number of members, as well as any reviews by outside agencies on the site in question.
Some sites offer a free, limited period membership-to give you a taste - avail of the offer. Also, consider joining more than one site-it will increase greatly your chances of meeting someone.
Choosing a site is a personal preference. Each site has its advantages as well as disadvantages. Many have several safety measures in place. Yet others are lax and could be misused by members who are not suitable. You need to decide what you're comfortable with.
Most sites will require the creation of a profile that possible dates will read and contact you by. Some sites require a detailed profile while others let you create your own version.
How much you want to reveal --- what aspect of your life/personality, is for you to decide. Keep in mind, what you say should paint a word picture of who you are-be precise as well as honest about yourself.
About the Author
John Fair is a relationship expert for campusrights.net in NY and Texas