If you are single in Los Angeles, chances are you’ve encountered a few less-than-stellar dates along the way. Like any city, L.A. has its share of bad daters: the player, the flake, the networker…too many to name. But instead of trashing our town’s dating scene, let’s face facts. If we’re all complaining about the same things, then surely we should be able to meet some good prospects, right?
Following are five myths singles seem to subscribe to, and why you should reconsider your beliefs.
1. There are no good men/ women left. Well, maybe you could say that if you lived in a small town in South Dakota, but you live in Los Angeles, one of the most populous cities in the country. You are lucky because you have the masses on your side---sheer numbers of people to meet, so there is never a dating shortage. Count your blessings.
2. I can’t seem to meet anybody new. The only reason you’re not meeting anybody new is because you’re not really taking chances and putting yourself out there. New people are moving to L.A. all the time. Instead of hanging out with your friends each night, join MeetUp.com or other social groups to start meeting people outside of your own immediate network. Expanding your social circle increases your chances of meeting new dating prospects.
3. People in L.A. are flakes. Yes, there are people who do not commit to firm plans, but not everyone in L.A. acts this way. Instead of trying to pick up guys and girls in bars, pick an event or sporting activity that you will enjoy, and attend. Chances are you’ll meet other people who enjoy the same activity, and will be motivated to join you the next time.
4. Guys are players, and girls are posers. How many times have we heard about the guy who we thought was interested, but turned out to be seeing other women on the side? Or the girl who went out with you to network for a job, or maybe to get a few free meals? These dating disasters happen everywhere; it’s not just in L.A. We may run into these scenarios, but they aren’t the norm. Instead of judging everyone you date as a potential player, drop the chip on your shoulder and realize that good people are out there, even in L.A. But you’ll never find them unless you take a chance on someone new.
5. Nobody wants to drive in traffic to go on a date. Maybe you commute back and forth between Hollywood and Redondo Beach. The last thing you want to do is drive a long way for a date, so why would anyone else? It’s understandable, but don’t automatically discount a dating prospect because of their locale. What if you met a date on the way home from work, bypassing the bad traffic time? Instead of assuming what people will and won’t do, give commuting a chance.
For more info: Kelly is a writer and former speed dating host. Have a worst date story? Please share it on www.kellyseal.com.
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