Table of contents
- A description that feels authentic
- Clear relationship goals
- Respectful interactions
- Balanced profiles
A description that feels authentic
Look for profiles that describe passions, free time activities, and goals. Emotionally available singles sound genuine and positive. They are optimistic about life and comfortable with themselves. Signs of that in a profile will correlate with emotional availability.
According to a 2023 study published in Sage Journals, optimistic individuals and individuals with optimistic partners are less likely to talk about problems and more likely to resolve them. There is even a “magic ratio” in relationships. Happy relations have at least five positive interactions for each negative one, or 5:1.
It’s best to steer clear of profiles that are sarcastic, very negative, or complain about exes. Someone who writes they’re “sick of drama” likely caused it in previous relationships. Statements like “swipe left if you’re not ready for something real” suggest not only a negative mindset but also emotional baggage, which can stop an emotionally available connection from developing.
That said, some complaining is normal. On average, people complain 30 times a day. It’s also best to steer clear of excessive optimism. Researchers estimate that 80% of people exhibit “optimism bias,” where they are too optimistic about the future of relationships.
Clear relationship goals
Prioritize profiles that communicate relationship goals and core values. Emotionally available people will not beat around the bush when you ask what they are looking for in a partner. They will share desired values and information about their own. Being upfront demonstrates emotional maturity and a clear grasp of relationship goals. On the other hand, blank, vague, or inconsistent profiles signal commitment issues or emotional unavailability. Be attentive to such profiles to weed out people on the prowl for rebound relationships.
What are the top relationship goals in 2024? A survey of 2,000 US adults in committed relationships published in the NY Post found the goals were communicating better, being positive with one another, and being intimate more often at 34%, 37%, and 29%. Fewer than 30% of people in serious relationships were intimate with their partner once a day or more often. There was a logical connection between intimacy frequency and the length of the relationship. Participants in a relationship for over five years were less likely to be intimate with their partner daily than those who had been in one for less than five years (23% vs. 39%.)
Respectful interactions
Emotionally available dating app users demonstrate attentiveness, respect, and genuine interest in initial conversations. They ask questions and answer them honestly and in detail. They listen actively, creating a balanced exchange. They express admiration for things you’re proud of and share their achievements.
Avoid people who rush the conversation. They likely only want to hook up. Likewise, steer clear of one-sided conversations where the other person isn’t sharing anything or dominating the discussion. Such little interest in your experiences is not normal. Emotionally immature or disrespectful interactions are in no way conducive to building a healthy relationship.
If they’re disinterested in you as a person so early on, the tendency will only become more pronounced. 20% of people in relationships are unhappy with how much attention their partner gives them, with 24% of women and 15% of men feeling this way.
Balanced profiles
Finally, look for profiles demonstrating a balanced life with various hobbies and passions. A 2023 study of 93,000 people revealed that those who had hobbies were happier and healthier. Overall, there was a negative association between engagement with hobbies and depressive symptoms.
Openness, self-awareness, and a willingness to engage
Look for openness, self-awareness, and a desire to engage in meaningful conversations. Profiles that prioritize emotional honesty are often signs of someone ready for a deeper connection. While no profile can tell the full story, focusing on these indicators allows you to navigate online dating better and find someone who’s truly available.
