Finding Love Post-lockdown

The pandemic has altered people’s expectations of companionship. Being in lockdown has made millions of people reconsider their perspectives on their fragile mortality and how fleeting life can be.

A recent survey done in the UK reported that 57% of singles were more likely to commit to a serious relationship than before the pandemic, compared to 37% who prefer casual relationships. Loyalty is also the top quality that 47% of participants want in a partner.

It is reasonable to conclude that the lockdown has accelerated people’s decision-making about their romantic futures.

The “new normal,” a term we have heard so often these recent times, doesn’t just pertain to changes in the way we view and practice health protocols. As it turns out, it might as well pertain to changes in dating trends.

Here are some strategies to help you meet “the one” in the post-lockdown dating world:

1. Make use of online resources.

The virtual dating world saw a significant boom during the Covid lockdown, proving you can still find love while being distanced from others.

Going forward, being online will still be an excellent way to find potential partners with similar interests and values. After all, the internet is abundant with dating apps and matchmaking sites.

Because the whole world is now interconnected, you can choose from a vast pool of potential partners worldwide. You aren’t limited to meeting people from your own country.

Try exploring various dating profiles, and if one seems to be your match, message them directly. Once you are acquainted and develop a connection, you can always come up with creative ways to engage with your online dates, including virtual dinners and couple games.

2. Go offline as well.

With the ease of pandemic restrictions, many people are now trying to arrange face-to-face dates as they still prefer traditional meet-ups. After all, how can you develop a strong connection with a person if you don’t spend time together face to face?

Statistics show that 38% of people choose restaurants as the ideal place to have a first date. Many bars and cinemas are opening their doors again. Parks and malls are also allowing more people to come in. As long as you still practice proper health hygiene and follow the post-lockdown protocols, you can pick any place you like for a date.

3. Talk things out and listen.

If you believe you can make a relationship work, then make sure you communicate effectively. Take the time to understand each other’s viewpoints.

Try taking turns talking about different topics and giving the other person space to express their thoughts and feelings. Listening without interrupting is the best way to ensure you don’t miss anything.

4. Develop great value in your partnership.

The pandemic has made people prioritize long-term relationships as they realize the importance of having a companion. After all, many people have lost loved ones unexpectedly, and the stress of isolation has taken its toll on so many.

Hence, you should value quality time with your significant other before any new, unseen tragedy emerges. Instead of settling for casual flings, try seeking a romantic interest you can possibly have a life-long relationship with.

5. Focus on emotional intelligence.

Emotional Intelligence (EI) is the capacity to understand your own emotions and those of others. EI helps you manage your emotions, improve relationships, and become more effective in dealing with issues.

One way to increase your EI is to practice mindfulness meditation. Meditation has been shown to help reduce stress, anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, jealousy, worry, self-consciousness, and fear.

6. Embrace a positive outlook.

The pandemic has been brutal for everyone. Many of us have become afraid to face difficulties due to fear and anxiety.

We may only see negative aspects when we are often bombarded by tragedies worldwide. However, you can still find a silver lining by simply being optimistic — especially on dating.

Whenever a significant relationship conflict happens, don’t be easily disheartened; instead, try to seek solutions. Onwards, you must accept responsibility for your actions and create a plan of action to save the relationship.

Globally, people have all been affected by the invisible plague that led to months of confinement and deaths. Nevertheless, try these strategies, and don’t let the pandemic hinder you from seeking and maintaining love post-lockdown.