Online dating is rough. I worried over the pandemic that the main place people used to form social bonds that could turn into a romantic relationship, Work, would disappear as people retreated from offices and started working from home.

But I think the answer may be complicated than that.

Maybe people are more afraid these days to pursue romantic relationships with people they meet at work due to fear of the consequences that have been smeared all over the media in recent years. I think this is a shame. I'm happily married but I've worked in a few jobs before where I've really clicked with someone, and the thought did pass through my mind that if we were both single, maybe there could be something there. And I wouldn't be surprised if the same thought occurred to them. I have no idea how, in that situation, I would have gone about it though, but it would probably be spending a lot of time with that person outside of work as part of an extended social group. But chances to do this dwindle as people move between cities/towns more frequently for work. I guess that's what pushes people to use these dating apps.

I have a theory that people who meet their loved ones through pre-existing social groups, have happier long term relationships with their partners.

Screw Match and their silly monopoly on romance.