By Jennifer Harrington
For singles, there are two words that can stir feelings of fear and excitement: blind date. Why such an intense reaction to these two little words? Simple: it’s because there is the fear of the unknown and the excitement of the potential of meeting that special someone. So if you’re still on the market and undecided if blind dates are really for you, here are a few reasons you may want to take the plunge and consider accepting a set-up:
1. Your friends and family know you best: Family and friends are often the ones who offer to set up blind dates. These are the people closest to you and know you best, and most likely, they know what qualities are most important to you in a potential mate. Also, you will have something in common (your mutual connection) with your blind date to help get the conversation started. So, put some trust in your inner circle and let them help you find “The One”!
Related: The Last Blind Date
2. You gain important dating experience: Whether your blind date is a success or disaster, every time you go out on a date, you get experience which will only help you as you continue on your dating journey. Most importantly, dates give you an important boost in self-confidence. After each date, look for the positives and honestly assess how the date went. This self-evaluation can help you as you consider and go on future dates.
Related: How to Ease Your Nerves Before a Blind Date
3. You know celebrities do it: Despite fame and fortune, celebrities also go on blind dates! Jenny McCarthy admitted in 2011 to a blossoming romance with sports agent Paul Krepelka, after begging her friends to set her up with men. Jenny confided in an interview with US Weekly: “I told everyone I know, Please, I can’t pick them. As a friend, find me a man.” Also, a little-known Hollywood fact: Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt met on a blind date! While the couple eventually divorced, their romance started on a blind date in 1998, after Jennifer’s long-time crush on Brad.
4. You know it may work: Blind dates always come with the potential of meeting somebody really great. But you will never know unless you accept the date and go into it with an open mind. If you need extra inspiration to accept the blind date you’ve been offered, think back to Charlotte’s quote from Sex and the City, “I’ve been dating since I was fifteen. I’m exhausted. Where is he?”. Mr. Right could be your blind date, so always accept the date!
Blind dates — friend or foe? Tell us in the comments about your blind date experiences!
