Social distancing as a measure to curb the COVID-19 pandemic is not only affecting work but also dating. Social places such as churches, restaurants and gyms where singles scout for potential dates are now closed limiting chances of meeting new people.
With limited human contact, being single is now more annoying than ever. This calls for the need to be innovative when looking out for new connections while still keeping within health guidelines.
Here are six easy ways to connect with new people:
1. Jogging
Now more than ever people are now taking up jogging to keep fit after spending long hours in the house. If you are single, you need to get off the couch and get into the tracks. Identify jogging routes in your area. Popular jogging places in Nairobi include the Arboretum and Karura forest. Since jogging is a social activity you are guaranteed to meet new people
2. Dating apps
Dating apps have revolutionized the dating scene for almost a decade now. Apps such as Tinder, Bumble, AfroIntroductions allow users to connect with like-minded people within their location. Video conferencing tools such as Zoom have made virtual interactions more interesting, allowing interested individuals to meet someone before a physical meetup.
3. Social media
Social media platforms give you a chance to connect with friends and to befriend new people. Additionally, platforms such as Facebook give you a chance to join a community of individuals with similar interests such as book lovers and adventurers.
READ: Millennial Dating | Are you a Sneator, Zombie or in a Birdbox Relationship?
4. Shopping
With many people staying at home, supplies are running out fast. This makes visits to supermarkets very common making them the most frequently visited places. During your next visit to the supermarket stop and say hi to a fellow shopper. If you are serious about meeting someone, avoid wearing pajamas and flip flops to the supermarket because you never know who is watching. Bookshops and movie rental stores are also good places for meeting new people.
5. Connect with co-workers
You know that coworker who is constantly hitting on you? Well, this is a nice time to know what they are all about. Have a chat with them over the water dispenser or in the office kitchen. You can also get to know them during walks or drives home.
6. Visit nature attractions and cultural heritage sites
Rather than spending endless hours rummaging through the internet, visit nature attractions and cultural heritage sites in your area that might still be open. Who knows, you could bump into your other half in a museum as you take a walk through the musuem’s art histroy section.
Whatever activity you chose to take up this season, ensure that you take necessary precautions to protect yourself from the COVID-19. Always wear your mask, sanitize your hands, and maintain a social distance of the recommended of 1 meter.