What's the Appeal of Internet Dating?

Has there ever been a time when singles weren't complaining how difficult it was to meet members of the opposite sex or find compatible partners?  There have been offline dating agencies for many years, personal ads in news paper and even magazines published monthly that are filled with singles ads.  

Frustrated singles would be told to "take courses", "do volunteer work", go to certain bars or social event or....the list was long and detailed.   So what happened?   Singles who tried all those things did meet people but it took a lot of time and effort to sort through to the right person, if they were found at all. 

When you meet someone at a public gathering or event you know only what you see and what they tell you.  The handsome man who is funny and charming may have wife and 5 kids at home - you don't know.   The gorgeous brunette may be a control freak - you don't know.   Yes, it can be fun to get to know new people but there are risks and frustrations involved as we've all learned.  

Internet dating is no longer a hidden activity that you don't admit to doing.   Online dating has definite benefits:

• You can quickly rule out those who don't interest you
• It's fun and a safe way to meet new people
• It's easy to use and understand
• You can connect with people you would never meet in real life becuase your paths would never cross
• You avoid any chance of face to face rejection

That last - rejection - keeps many people from dating at all.   We all have friends who are instantly comfortable wherever they are.   They can talk to anyone and fit into any situation.   They are also rare.   Most of us are at least a little bit nervous when meeting someone new.   Fear of being rejected can keep us from showing our best selves...or our real self.

Internet dating provides not only an easy way to meet - but also an easy exist if you need one.   You aren't committed to hours of your time or attention, you aren't obligated to entertain or amuse.   Perhaps the strangest - and best - attribute of online dating is that you can just be yourself with no apologies necessary.