Title.

I’ve been on I’d say 30-40 first dates with different girls over the last two years from online dating apps (I’m 28M).

Some went very well, some not so good. Even out of all the good and bad though the one resounding outcome which has made me question myself has been being hit with the “I don’t think I feel a romantic spark” and “you’re such a lovely guy, but I don’t think I’m ready to date properly” occasionally. Rejections. Often times after dates where I feel there might be room for something to sprout.

I find myself reflecting on the fact that during these first online dates, they feel like a sterile environment, where you’re meeting someone for coffee or drinks, lacking social proof and a good energy scenario to show off who you are. Personally I’m generally quite confident, self assured in myself, I’m a good earner, very sporty, quite good looking, dress well - but I cant help but feel like the first online date environment is too sterile to proper ignite a spark. (Don’t get me wrong, I escalate, touch, etc, all within reason)

I’m wondering that when girls throw the “no romantic spark” or “romantic connection” line, am I a victim of the circumstance and if we’d met on a dancefloor or in a bar we could’ve hit it off entirely differently. Maybe a first online date feels so much like a one on one interview compared to partying and vibing with someone.

Are guys at a disadvantage cos of the nature of the first online date, where girls are expecting the moon and more in terms of a spark? Or maybe I’m reading into this too much? Or maybe I’m not reading into it enough? Or maybe its just me haha!

Love to hear thoughts from the wholeistic view standpoint for online first dates.

Lots of love.