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What I Learned on My First Date in Eight Years
(Drum roll please)
I had not been on a date in eight years when I decided one night to set up some apps again. I know, I know, they are a cesspit, but when I found that a lot of the people around me were either busy when I wanted to do things, and that I was doing the same things over and over again, I decided I wanted to change it up. I knew a lot had probably changed, and even the last time I used online dating it wasn’t great — but if nothing else I’d have some stories right?
I have been single for the last two years, and this time being single was very different. I wasn’t instantly lonely, or trying to get back out there. Instead this time I was busy, focused and calm. I had always enjoyed my own company, but now, even when it had become what I wouldn’t have been able to tolerate before, I gradually went from tolerating it to enjoying it.
So when I started to talk to people I was still myself but perhaps less intense. And when I ended up meeting a guy online and agreeing to meet him for a drink I honestly wasn’t even nervous. I was simply meeting new people and flexing my dating muscles.
Instantly when he arrived I recognised him from his photos, which is always a good start. It took a while for him to warm up with talking but I kept it going smiling and asking questions and laughing.
