Online dating can be one of the best ways to meet people, but, a lot of people are still too nervous to take the plunge. Why? Often, because of stubborn misconceptions or stereotypes about online dating. If you are uncomfortable with the idea of looking for love online, rationally consider your reasons. It could be that an irrational hang up is holding you back, and keeping you from meeting the one for you.

“It’s only for losers.” This is a holdover from the days when only nerdy/techy types were online. Times have changed. Not only is everyone including my mother online now, most of us use the internet for all manner of transactions. We shop there, watch TV there, read the news there… why not use it to look for dates?

“I hate the idea of paying to meet people.” The thing is, when you go to a bar or coffee shop to hang around and meet singles, you are still paying to meet people. The difference here is that your $3 cup of coffee only buys a few hours of face time in the shop, while money spent on premium features on a dating site give you much more leeway. And, while people hang out in bars for all sorts of reasons and may not be looking for someone, people on a dating site are definitely there to meet people. Yes, you are spending money either way, but, your chances of making a connection are higher in the qualified audience of a dating site.

“People will judge my relationship.” If you are self-conscious, no one has to know that you and your new beau met online. And, if someone does have a problem with it, so what? It matters more that you found someone you like than what someone thinks about how you met that someone.

“I won’t get any responses.” Not true, with this caveat: you will get responses if your profile is engaging, your pictures clear, and your messages intriguing and inviting. Check out some of our online dating tips to make the most of your experience dating online.

“All the good ones in my area are taken anyway.” You’re not taken, are you? It stands to reason that, if you’re single, there are other single folks out there that are a match for you.