Dating these days has seen some dramatic changes. With the advent of dating apps, the whole dating game has become much more convenient. You've got a smorgasbord of potential matches at your fingertips, and it's all just a few swipes away. It's like a buffet of romantic possibilities, right? But, there's a catch. It's become so effortless to present a carefully curated version of ourselves to the world that sometimes authenticity takes a back seat.
Take something as simple as height, for instance. People might fudge the numbers a bit. And it's not just about height; basic details can get a makeover too. It's almost like we're all playing a role, trying to fit into some idealized image of who we think we should be to attract someone. They give you the chance to craft an image that seems desirable, but it's important to remember that authenticity is a cornerstone of meaningful connections.?
If we're not honest about who we are, we're setting ourselves up for potential disappointment. In the quest for the perfect match, we may lose sight of the beauty in imperfection and the uniqueness that makes each of us special.
Now that people are seeing how they are losing sight of who they are actually meeting, they are realizing that authenticity is everything. Based on this, research was commissioned by Bumble and conducted by Censuswide with a sample of 2,003 adults aged 18-40 across gender identities in 10 Indian cities in India between 05.09.2023 and 08.09.2023. As per this research, 'about 68%?of people surveyed in India prefer dating someone who is authentically themselves, even if they don't always share the same perspectives.'
As per the survey, 45% of people would want their potential partners would ditch their disguises and be authentically themselves on the first date as they believe it builds trust from the beginning.?The rationale behind this desire for authenticity on the initial date stems from the understanding that when someone presents their true self from the outset, it sets the stage for a relationship based on trust. This approach prioritizes building a connection based on genuine personalities rather than carefully constructed facades, which can ultimately lead to disappointment or a lack of trust down the road.
There are quite a few reasons why people would think hiding their authentic self is the best way to be:
"53% of Indians surveyed say they would consider faking to make themselves more appealing." This inclination to "fake it" might arise from various factors. For some, it could be a response to societal beauty standards that have often exerted undue pressure on individuals to meet certain physical criteria. In this pursuit of physical attractiveness, people may consider presenting themselves in a way that aligns with popular standards, even if it means altering their appearance, heightening their fashion choices, or concealing perceived flaws.
"42% of Indians surveyed say they put on the facade of confidence."?The desire to project confidence may also stem from the belief that doing so can facilitate smoother social interactions and open doors to various opportunities, be it in the professional sphere or in personal relationships. Many individuals are acutely aware of the power of confidence in making a positive first impression, and as a result, they may choose to adopt this facade as a means of navigating the complexities of everyday life.
"34% of Indians surveyed say they put on the facade of intelligence." The motivation behind putting on this facade may be multifaceted. For some, it may arise from a desire to make a strong first impression, believing that demonstrating intellectual prowess can be a compelling way to captivate a date's interest. Intelligence is often linked to confidence and charisma, which are qualities that many people find appealing and alluring.??
"32% of Indians surveyed say they put on the facade of humour when dating."?For many, it arises from the desire to make a strong first impression, recognizing that a well-timed joke or a lighthearted quip can break the ice and create an immediate sense of rapport. A good sense of humour can be seen as a sign of confidence and an ability to navigate social situations with ease.?
In conclusion, the importance of authenticity in dating cannot be overstated. By being true to oneself from the outset, individuals can establish connections based on genuine compatibility and shared values, rather than relying on facades that may eventually crumble. Authenticity ensures that there are no unexpected surprises down the road, fostering relationships built on trust, mutual understanding, and a true connection between two people.?