DATING
Playing It Safe May Not Be the Best Idea
Dating is not for the faint of heart, or so they say. In fact, dating horror stories are aplenty in social media. Catfishing, ghosting, and even scams are enough to scare some people off from the scene.
But while some have second thoughts about dating, more still aren’t deterred and are determined to navigate their dating pools in the hopes of finding love. However, some resort to playing it safe out of fear of heartbreak.
Exercising caution while dating is totally normal. You’ll never know who you’ll meet, and outcomes are unpredictable. However, being careful is different from totally avoiding risks. Love is a gamble anyway, so why be scared of it?
Playing By the Rules
Many people are on their toes when they date. The ambiguity creates uncertainty, causing some daters to get scared.
What triggers this fear?
One, past heartbreaks make hearts colder. You may have gotten over your exes, but the scars don’t heal as fast. You fear experiencing disappointment and pain all over again, hence your hesitance.
Two, you aren’t ready to let go of your independence. Change comes with dating, and you may have to compromise the luxury of doing things on your own. This time around, you will need to consider the other person, especially in making decisions.
Three, you think you’re too occupied. You claim work and other matters are keeping you busy from pursuing love. Some use their jobs and other hobbies to hide from their fear of making connections.
And lastly, you are not open to change — yet. When someone comes into the picture, you’ll need to make significant adjustments in your life. More often than not, you feel like you don’t have the energy and time for such changes.
Break Out of Your Shell
If you want to meet the love of your life, staying inside your shell won’t cut it. Navigating the dating scene means putting yourself out there. Online dating nixes that need, but there’s a reason many still go on in-person dates.
Get out of your comfort zone and put your best foot forward through these friendly reminders:
#1: Try going out at least once a week
Staying in the comforts of your home 24/7 sounds great, but there’s only so much you can do. You can’t meet people if you don’t face them.
Going out doesn’t mean going to crowded and fancy places. It could be a random corner coffee shop or a quaint nearby library.
#2: Don’t hide yourself in a crowd
Don’t stand in a corner and isolate yourself. You’re outside for a reason, so have fun and mingle! You don’t have to act like you’re the life of the party, but don’t be a killjoy.
#3: You’re better off winging some things.
Not everything has a purpose. Let nature take its course and ride along. Meeting people doesn’t always need a reason. Who knows? That person you met at the park might have the qualities you are looking for!
Open Your Heart
Love is a risk. Putting your feelings on the line isn’t the easiest thing to do, especially for shy types. However, it’s worth it when you find someone who won’t hesitate to bet on you.
Playing it safe stops you from fully embracing the joy of falling and being in love. While there’s a good time to play it safe, it doesn’t hurt to wear your heart on your sleeve every now and then. Don’t let your fears stop you from your happiness!
