From Steady to Swiping: My Dating Adventures

Welcome to my little square of the internet where I hope to record my experiences of dating in the digital age and share observations from my swipes.

So… Let me set the scene:

When you become suddenly single in your early 30’s (having been in a committed relationship, that began before digital dating really took off, for the best part of the last decade) the world of dating in the modern age comes as quite a shock.

I am sure there are lots of you out there, just like me:

You are a young professional with a registration to uphold. You’ve done the work on yourself to make sure you are fully healed from your long term relationship ending. A trip to get coffee and a book shop is an ideal day. You enjoy your own company and have an amazing support network who cheer you on and make you feel like you can achieve anything. Travel is nice, being surrounded by your people is even nicer. You try your best to keep healthy. Meal prep and a rotation of tasty, balanced dinners? That’s already part of the routine. You have a variety of interests. World issues are on your radar and you have a social conscience. You enjoy some nice things in your life because you work hard for them. All forms of wine are now drunk (not just a Zinfandel gal any more) and it is not drunk to get ‘drunk’ it’s for enjoyment – shocking really! You are open minded. 7-8 hours sleep a night is preferable. Silk pillow cases and hair ties are used. Hangovers last 2-3 business days and happen twice a year, maximum. You are religious about SPF and skin care is a non-negotiable. And you would just like to share this little life with someone with similar values who compliments it well. Not too much to ask, right?!

Ready to get back out there:

You aren’t quite sure where to start but everyone suggests ‘the apps’ – they have many positive stories – and you are filled with a sense of hope. You are advised on the pros and cons of them and you tentatively download them. Somehow, you’ve been convinced that maybe this is the way, after all.

Taking the plunge:

So, you meticulously curate a profile. You get your girl gang to help you. Even if you say so yourself, your profile is well researched and you ensure you are showing yourself off in the best light – not too quiet but not too outgoing, made up but not too made up… the list goes on.You psych yourself up (maybe with the help of a little cocktail or two) and your profile goes live. You dive into the unknown in the hope of meeting someone.

The front line:

And suddenly you are on the dating front line and you feel like no amount of swipes can save you.

You are stuck somewhere between horrified and hysterical and you wonder how you are supposed to meet anyone through this means.

You wish you could turn back time to when dating was simpler and dating apps were something you had a giggle at with your single friends and you enjoyed swiping on their behalf… Back to a time where you didn’t know the impact they could have on you.

Strength in numbers:

So, come with me as I explore the world of digital dating and quite frankly reflect on the utterly unhinged things I have seen… and it has only been a week!

Welcome to the world of Unhinged on Hinge and I can’t wait to hear your unhinged experiences, tips and tricks too!