In 2017, 19% of internet users in the U.S. have reported using a dating app or website. This is not a small number taking into consideration people’s busy schedules, but it’s not everyone’s first choice.
In a world where technology is taking over every aspect of our lives, finding a soulmate is becoming increasingly difficult. People spend most of their time staring at a screen, whether at work or their phones.
Though being in a healthy relationship is not only good for your soul but also your body and mental health, this doesn’t mean single people are miserable and desperate.
Read on to find out how to meet people outside of dating apps and master the art of one-on-one conversations in real life.
First Things First: Delete All Dating Apps
The first step to improving your dating life is to delete every single app on your phone. Dating has moved almost exclusively online and people start to lose the ability to communicate effectively in person.
Deleting the apps will help you practice your social skills with real people and actually get to know them beyond the first impression on your screen.
Realize There’s Nothing Wrong with You
Family gatherings, weddings, and holidays can be stressful if you’re single and everyone wants to know why you haven’t found the love of your life yet. This is why many people simply avoid these get-togethers or just ask someone to act as their date.
Sometimes, hiring someone to be your companion on important events can teach you more on interpersonal relationships than any dating app. However, there’s proper etiquette for that and you can find more info here to learn how to handle these situations.
Dating in the modern world is hard and can sometimes make you feel like something is wrong with you. If you believe you have some deeply rooted issues that prevent you from finding love, consider talking to a therapist.
Go to People’s Birthday Parties
Birthday parties are a great way to meet new people while celebrating a friend’s special day. Even if you know everyone there, there’s always a chance someone will invite a friend, a co-worker, or a sibling to the party.
This doesn’t mean you should attend every party you’re invited to, but if you like the person celebrating, accept their invitation. You never know who might be there.
Explore Facebook Events
Scrolling through your Facebook feed doesn’t have to be a mindless activity you do when you’re bored. Use this time to find events in your area that you’re interested in. Meeting people on these events is relatively easy because you already have a shared interest in something.
If you don’t want to go alone, find a few friends who are willing to accompany you and make the best of the event. This doesn’t have to be a concert or a live music night at a bar. You can find free yoga classes, book clubs, networking events, and countless workshops where it’s quiet enough to have an actual conversation.
Get a Dog
We’re not saying you should get a dog solely for the purpose of meeting new people, but if you love dogs, it can be a great way to strike up a conversation with other dog lovers.
Dog parks are the best places to meet people who share your love of animals, so you have something to talk about from the get-go.
Go to Your Office Parties
Even if you don’t know or like all of your co-workers, office parties and happy hours are a gem for finding new people.
Dating with a co-worker is frowned upon in many companies, and may even be bad for you if things go south. However, there’s almost always a new face at these parties who joined as someone’s friend.
Get a New Hobby
Sign up for a new hobby or take up creative classes. These are often packed with people with the same interests as you and the groups are small enough for everyone to introduce themselves.
It’s easy to talk about something you’re passionate about, especially with other like-minded individuals. Asking someone in the group for advice is a great way to strike up a conversation.
Go Somewhere New
There’s nothing wrong with going to your favorite bar, but a change of scenery once in a while can be great for your dating life. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet someone, and if you don’t, you’ll get out of your comfort zone and see how other people have fun.
Trying new things doesn’t always have to involve a night out. It can be trying a new coffee shop or lunch spot, taking a different route to work, or going to a Meetup event.
Let People Introduce You to Someone
There’s no shame in letting others set you up with someone, especially if you’ve tried every other option. Blind dating isn’t everyone’s cup of tea because you don’t know if you’ll like the person or have something to talk about.
Explore your options here and let your friends introduce you to someone. They know what you like and won’t set you up with a horrible person. Family members can set you up as well, but be careful here. If you’re not close and they have no idea what type of people you’re attracted to, you may end up on a boring date with no chemistry.
Now You Know How to Meet People IRL Without Using Dating Apps
Now that you’ve discovered the basics of how to meet people in real life, it’s time to put yourself out there.
Have a positive mindset, stay open, but set clear boundaries of what’s appropriate for you. Modern dating has its challenges, but if you master the art of listening and leading a conversation, you’ll not only meet new people but also get to know them better.
For more tips on happiness and self-improvement, visit our blog where we share useful articles on living a fulfilling life.