How to Escalate an Online Relationship
Those in search of love aren't just limited to the local singles bar anymore. No matter if you sign up for an online dating service to best find your match or simply connect via popular social networking sites, the evolution of the online relationship differs from that of a face-to-face relationship. Taking it to the next level requires special consideration, as well as the understanding of the anatomy of the nature of a cyber relationship.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Don't build this other person up into your ideal right away, rather take the time to get to know who he or she is. Though you may have found an interesting person with similar interests, the online relationship is limited to what the other person wants you to see. The Internet provides a fast track to a certain intimacy, but that cannot replace spending time to get to know this person face to face.
-
2
Gradually build from stage to stage. After you have exchanged e-mails, progress to the next step of instant messages, then text messages and finally phone calls or webcam sessions. Spend time in these stages to have as many "real" conversations as you can before you meet. This gives you time to build your comfort and security with the other person.
-
-
3
Meet in person once you have established a level of trust through the progressive stages. Still exercise caution, however. Meet in a public place, such as a coffee house, museum or restaurant. This is an ideal opportunity to enjoyed a shared interest in a neutral, nonthreatening environment.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Be patient with each other. Those individuals who flourish best with the online relationship may feel more awkward in a face-to-face environment. Follow each other's cues to know when to take the next step in the relationship, if any at all. Each step should feel like a natural step forward, and neither should feel pressured to leave a stage before he or she is ready.
Use caution in what details you share. Online relationships tend to feel more intimate faster than real-life relationships, but in reality, you are giving your information to a virtual stranger. Establish the same boundaries you have offline with those people you meet online.
References
- Photo Credit Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images
