A Surprise 2020 Pandemic Byproduct: Transparency

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I really can’t imagine trying to date amid this pandemic. Picture it: You’ve finally recovered from a bad breakup and decide that 2020 is going to be “your year” to put yourself out there. All of a sudden, your options have dwindled down to A) Endless FaceTime “dates” and socially-distanced, masked walks in the park, both of which don’t allow you to judge whether that crucial, in-the-flesh chemistry exists, or B) Going about your dating life as if the pandemic doesn’t exist and risking catching COVID from someone who “forgot” their wallet at dinner.

However, after really thinking about it, I realized that 2020 romance-seekers have an advantage because there’s no room for game-playing. First, you can find out immediately what someone’s stance is on COVID protocol (tip: If they suggest meeting at their place right away, it probably isn’t in line with yours). Second, if you make it clear that you want to spend time getting to know a person by phone/at a safe distance first, and only get physically close after you’ve both quarantined and tested negative, you’ll easily weed out anyone who isn’t serious about a relationship.