How to Build Authentic Relationships
It takes courage to put yourself out there and be your authentic self while dating. But isn’t that what you are looking for in a romantic partner? Learn how to build authentic relationships while dating that lead to successful, long-term relationships based on trust and honesty.
Authentic Meaning
Being authentic in life means that what you say is inline with what you actually do. It implies being fully trustworthy, genuine, loyal, reliable, real, and true.
Authenticity in Online Dating
Online dating has pretty much taken over as a way to meet someone new. This can be a fun and exciting way to “get to know someone”, but it isn’t real until you meet in person and see if the connection is as strong in real life.
Almost 84% of singles want more authenticity in dating, according to a survey by the dating app Plenty of Fish. The internet does make it easy to embellish our accomplishments, but resist the urge to stray too far. Sticking to the truth is essential if you want a healthy, lasting relationship.
Check out Online Safety Dating Tips
For some of the most important safety tips that you should follow, and the red flags that you should watch out for when dating online.
Authenticity in Offline Dating
Whether you originally met online, or locally the same rules apply. Trying to impress someone is not going to lead to a meaningful relationship. The goal is to discover if you are compatible or not, and if there is a real connection that will allow you to continue and create a future together.
Check out Learning to Trust Again
Learning how to trust again is at the core of being able to live a healthy, happy, and full life after divorce.
In the long run, you will both have more fun if you allow your true self to shine through.
5 Ways to Build Trust while Dating
Be your authentic self
Do not try to be the person you think someone else wants you to be! Show your quirky self, don’t hide it away. They want to get to know the “real you”, and you should want the same thing. If you are a level 4 gamer, or going out to sing karaoke a few nights a week makes you happy , you need to get that out in the open sooner rather than later. It may become something that you can both enjoy doing together.
Don’t shy away from difficult topics
Life is not always gumdrops and butterflies, it gets messy. Don’t be afraid to show your vulnerabilities, or your fears. If there is a disagreement, or conflict that arises, face it head on. Don’t run away from it, stay calm and work through it together. Find common ground, resolve the issue, and it will end up bringing you closer together.
Be open and honest from the beginning
If you want to build a lasting relationship, you need to open up about what you are or are not looking for. Don’t keep them guessing. The goal is to begin building trust the first time you meet, whether in person or online.
If you will never, ever consider getting married again, you need to be honest about it. Maybe you have no desire to be a step-parent, that needs to be discussed at the beginning of the relationship.
Be upfront about your personal beliefs, values, priorities, family, finances, and your life’s purpose. It is better to find out in the beginning whether or not your values and priorities align.
Share a meal
It is easy to hide behind a computer screen, but you can only stare at the menu for so long before things get awkward. Sitting across from each other is the perfect way to learn more about this person. How do they treat the staff? Are they pushy and insist on ordering for both of you, or instead helps you narrow down your choices?
How does this person make you feel? Does the conversation flow freely, or are you constantly trying to make small talk? Follow your instincts; do you want to spend more time with this person, or are you looking for a window to crawl out of?
Follow through with promises
Do not agree to things that you have no intention of following through with. Nothing will break trust faster than being with someone that isn’t honest and dependable.
Final Thoughts
Successful long-term relationships require trust and honesty. Being authentic and staying true to yourself, your beliefs and feelings from the start will give you the best chance at finding the right person to spend your life with. Don’t forget to encourage your date to do the same.
Keep an open-mind and don’t be afraid to reveal who you really are. You may miss out on genuine love unless you are will to take the risk. Just relax and be yourself!
