Love Without the Swipes | How to Meet People Organically

Need a date? A handsome or pretty face is just a swipe away. That shouldn’t be too hard to do, right?

For some of us, that’s a given.

But for several people, modern dating doesn’t always work out well. Some are scared to dip their toes for various reasons (which may need a separate entry), while others are just tired and burnt out from their misfortunes.

That said, some daters don’t know how to meet people organically. And I don’t blame them; meeting somebody offline seems foreign and otherworldly in a world where the internet is king.

So, here’s a question: how does someone meet a match in the wild?

Whether you’re fed up with the apps or simply want a refreshing change, here’s how you can have genuine encounters sans the screen:

#1: Don’t think you’re undateable.

So you’ve tried your luck numerous times on dating apps, but each attempt has failed. While that sucks, it’s not (and shouldn’t be) a black mark on you. You’re not the only unsuccessful person on dating apps—there are more than dozens of us! You’re not undateable, you just can’t depend on algorithms to match you with the right people.

#2: Get out of the house!

You can’t put yourself out there if you don’t get up and move. Going outside is a fresh change of scenery, and you can use that if you want a hard reset on your dating life. You’ll be surprised at the places and faces you’ll see.

#3: Go to new, random places.

Since we’re on the subject of going out, don’t stick to your usual rendezvous. Expand your horizons by going to new locations.

It doesn’t have to be the fanciest place on earth. Even somewhere like your neighborhood cafe you don’t frequent is enough to break the routine and open possibilities. Who knows—waiting in line for an order may lead to something more.

#4: Don’t put all your eggs in a serendipitous basket.

Don’t get me wrong, chance encounters are great! However, you shouldn’t bank on them as the ultimate solution to your dating dilemmas. Going into every situation expecting serendipitous encounters will only lead to disappointment.

#5: Don’t be afraid to fly solo.

Social events can be scary if you’re alone. However, don’t be intimidated by the idea of attending them by yourself. It’ll put you outside your comfort zone, pushing you to talk to people. You’re more likely to progress if you don’t bring a friend along for the ride.

#6: Get by with a little help from friends.

Before apps and websites came into the picture, people met one another through friends. If you don’t know how to meet someone without online dating, let your pals be your wingmen.

Don’t ignore that housewarming invitation just because you don’t have a plus-one. Showing up may just be all you need to meet someone new.

#7: Pursue your interests.

If you want to meet someone like-minded, make yourself known by going for your passions. Shared interests will pave the way for natural and genuine connections.

As frustrating as it is, failure in online dating is common. Think of it this way: it works for one-half of the dating population, while it’s not the other half’s cup of tea. You’re simply in the latter, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Trust me—you don’t suck.

And with that, you’re better off meeting fellow singles the traditional way, offline and face to face. Learning how to meet people organically shouldn’t be a tall order. If you’re not into swipes and clicks, it’s an option you can definitely fall back on.