Alright friend, let’s get into it. Online dating. It’s like ordering takeout lol sometimes you get a delicious meal, and other times, you’re staring at a soggy cold mess wondering what went wrong. But hey, it’s 2025, and folks are no longer meeting cuties in the cereal aisle anymore (sadly). So, if you’re navigating the swipe life, here’s the playbook to help you win the game without losing your mind.
DO: Be honest about what you’re looking for.
Listen, nobody’s got time for games. If you’re looking for a serious relationship, say that. If you’re just out here vibing and looking for something casual, cool but say that too. The right people will respect your honesty. But if you’re out here pretending to want “long walks on the beach” and shit, when all you want is Netflix and chill, you’re setting yourself (and them) up for disappointment. Keep it 100 from the start.
DON’T: Overshare in your bio.
Look, you don’t need to write a whole autobiography. Nobody’s trying to read your entire life story between swipes. But you also have to put something. If your bio is blank, sorry friend but you’re a weirdo. Keep it short, sweet, and engaging. Hit them with a little personality: your favorite hobby, a fun fact, or even a random question to break the ice. Leave a little mystery for the DMs, cool?
DO: Pick good pictures.
I’m begging you, my guy, my girl, no blurry pics from 2015. And for the love of all things holy, no group shots where nobody knows who the profile is actually about. Show your face, flash that smile, and maybe toss in a hobby pic… umm maybe like you cooking or playing a sport. It’s like a visual resume, we’ve got to make it pop!
DON’T: Post nothing but thirst traps.
Look, I’m not saying don’t flex a little friend, show off those gains or that flawless Pilates bawdy but balance it out. If all you’re serving is spicy pics, you might attract people who aren’t here for the deeper stuff. Sprinkle in some “human being” energy, okay? Because honestly speaking, if I can picture you naked even when you’re fully dressed, you can too.
DO: Put effort into your opening message.
If your idea of a first message is “Hey,” we need to have a lil chat. That’s like walking up to someone in a bar and just standing there awkwardly. Read their profile, find something interesting, and mention it. For example, “I love your photography work. What’s the coolest shot you’ve ever taken?” Boom. Conversation started.
DON’T: Use pickup lines that make people cringe.
No one’s falling for “Did it hurt? When you fell from heaven?” in 2025. Retire that. Please.
DO: Be consistent with communication.
If you’re feeling someone, don’t leave them on read for days. Ain’t nobody got time for mixed signals. Respond when you can, and keep the energy flowing. Ghosting is for amateurs; you’re better than that.
DON’T: Play the “Who can care less” game.
This isn’t middle school. If you like someone, let it show! Playing it too cool will have you out here single and confused.
DO: Keep first dates simple.
You don’t need to rent a yacht or plan a candlelit dinner under the stars for date one. A quick coffee shop link up, a walk in the park, or even a chill happy hour (at a low key spot) works. The goal is literally just to vibe-check each other in a low-pressure setting.
DON’T: Treat the first date like a job interview.
This ain’t Indeed or LinkedIn friend. Don’t grill them about their 5-year plan or their credit score. Relax and enjoy the moment. Just small talk while watching their mannerisms and body language in a public setting. The deeper stuff can come later if you both feel a connection.
DO: Stay safe.
Meet in public places. Tell a friend where you’re going and who you’re meeting. And trust your gut. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to bounce. Your safety comes first, always.
DON’T: Ignore red flags.
If they’re rude to the waiter, constantly talking about their ex, or oversharing about how “people don’t understand” them, you already know to RUN, and fast. Red flags don’t turn green over time.
At the end of the day, online dating can be fun, weird, and sometimes frustrating, but it’s all about how you approach it. Keep your standards high, your energy positive, and your photos crisp. And hey, if all else fails, there’s always the cereal aisle…
Xoxo, Drea
Sandrea Lanay 
Comment below, I’d love to hear from you!