Guest Post: Big City Dating

Living as a single in a large city can be a lonely existence for someone who doesn't have a family or community support system. Many singles don't find it easy to meet other people in a big city, whether they're interested in friendship or dating. In addition, singles looking for a committed relationship may be reticent about expressing that sentiment. Yet if they can't make it clear that they're looking for a serious partner, they may attract people who don't share their goals.

Some singles appreciate their friends who try to "set them up" while others are offended, but in the best of circumstances, friends have their own lives and can quickly become weary of trying to find dates for their single friends. Singles can also weary of hearing their married friends tell them that they're being "too picky" or "not doing enough" to meet a partner.

Internet dating can also be frustrating. Dating sites are not always secure. Some online dating sites may include profiles of people who live across the country or even outside of the country. Profiles are often misleading, either intentionally or unintentionally so if a single wants to identify a person that will be a good match, the online profiles can create more problems than solutions.

The final option, meeting people at events, bars or parties often feels awkward and superficial. Singles often say that they feel pressured to make a connection at venues where the lights are low, the music is loud and the conversation feels shallow and phony.

The bright lights and excitement that big city living offers can bring new opportunities for singles of all ages but for those who are looking for a meaningful relationship, living in a large city can bring a certain level of loneliness that's not always easy to overcome.

Sarah is a professional matchmaker at Table for Six, a unique dating service based in Los Angeles. Table for Six has years of experience matching like-minded single professionals together. A policy of caring about their members above all, has produced many happy Table for Six reviews.

(Photo from Awesome People Hanging Out Together)