When it comes to dating online , being too judgemental can hinder your chances of making meaningful connections with people. Nobody is perfect so its good to give people a fair chance. It doesn’t pay hanging on to ideals of yester years. In fact, for a woman, taking control and being the first to message a guy gives one millage online. That is one very appealing quality in a woman – a woman who knows what she wants and goes for it.

Below are 3 steps you can take to ensure that you are less judgemental and more open when dating online:

1. Show some vulnerability

First off, you need to ask yourself: “Would I date me? Do I possess the qualities I am also looking for”? If you can answer that question truthfully, then you will be able to change a few things here and there that can increase your chances online. If you expect respect and kindness, you also have to be respectful and kind to the people you meet.

You need to be able to put your guard down and consider meeting someone half-way. Vulnerability isn’t always a bad thing. Showing your feelings doesn’t mean you are weak. Accepting these feelings is one sure way to make real connections. So don’t write off a great guy just because he watches say Game of Thrones. Give them a chance.

2. Meet offline

Don’t rush into judgements based on the person’s text messages. So many people just can’t express themselves via text or emails. If the person is not far, meet them in person. You might be shocked at the kind of connection you might make when you talk to them face-to-face.

3. Give yourself a 3-date period

One date  is not enough for one to pass judgement as to whether the other person is worth giving a shot. Give things time to develop by at least going on 3 dates (unless the guy had some psychotic episode on your first date).

Most people may not open up on a first date. Make sure you meet this person outdoors so you can see their personality based on how they interact with other strangers in public. After the third date, people tend to be freer. And if there is no spark or connection after the third date, then its ok to cut your loses and move on.

Good luck!