Logan Ury, Director of Relationship Science at Hinge, shares her insights on how our obsession with smartphones is affecting our dating lives.
The Problem
- 33% of Gen Z daters are feeling distracted on dates because they can't stop looking at their phones.
- 75% admit that being on their phone prevents good conversation and makes them more hesitant to open up on a date.
- Even having your phone out, even if it's face down, can be distracting.
The Solution
- Put your phone away. This is the most important step, and it can be done in a variety of ways.
- Find a romantic setting. This could be a quiet coffee shop, a park, or even your own living room.
- Find a distraction-free activity. This could be anything from taking a walk to cooking a meal together.
- Be present. Pay attention to your date and make an effort to connect with them.
The Benefits
- You'll have more meaningful conversations.
- You'll be more likely to connect with your date.
- You'll be more likely to have a second date.
Additional Tips
- Don't talk to too many people at once on a dating app.
- Give your dates some breathing room.
- Move from chatting to the date as soon as possible.
- Three days of chatting is the sweet spot before moving to a phone call or in-person date.
Conclusion
Dating in the age of smartphones can be tough, but it's not impossible. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of having a successful and enjoyable dating life.