Whether you’re in a dating rut or you just want to take a different direction with your love life this year, the new year offers the perfect chance to start fresh. If you’re in need of some resolutions that will bring you closer to finding your beshert, use this list to get off on the right foot in 2016.
1. Slow Down
Today, there’s a lot of stock put into how busy we are. But in 2016, taking some time to slow things down can help you get back on track to a more balanced lifestyle. Don’t over-schedule every minute of the day; instead, make time to do something that eases your mind and body. This puts you in a better headspace for those times that really count, like going on a date with a promising JDate member. Without taking time to slow down, you may feel so rushed that you don’t recognize your soul mate when you finally meet them.
2. Get In Touch With Your Roots
Considering your interest in JDate, it’s safe to say that you probably find meaning in your Jewish identity. But when was the last time you got back in touch with your roots? Whether you’re deeply committed to your faith or you’re more of a secular Jew, consider embracing your Jewish roots in a new way in 2016. Here are just a few suggestions:
- Read a book about Jewish culture and history
- Join a Jewish social group in your city
- Attend a synagogue
- Learn to cook a kosher meal
- Volunteer for Jewish organizations
- Ask your relatives about their experiences as a Jew
- Go on a trip to Israel
How does this resolution affect your dating life? For one, it can help you meet new people and expand your social circles. But more importantly, it gives you a better sense of how you want your Jewish identity to factor into your life going forward. This is essential for finding a beshert who shares similar values and feelings about their Jewish identity.
3. Spruce Up Your Profile
Giving your JDate profile a fresh look is a great way to attract some attention in the new year. Add some updated photos, rewrite critical sections or adjust your preferences for what you’re looking for in a mate. But don’t stop there. Pick up a new hobby, read fascinating books, try out a new look or travel somewhere exciting, then add that info to your profile. Making your offline life more interesting is a great way to meet promising prospects online.
4. Think Of Fresh Icebreakers
Want to message someone you found on JDate? Before you go to your old standbys, remember that a copy-and-paste message can be spotted from a mile away. Adding a personalized touch to your messages is the way to go. Here are a few ideas:
- For the book lover: “Have you read [insert a favorite novel]?
- For someone who loves travel: “What’s your favorite place to travel? Mine is…”
- For a shared hobby: “How did you get into [insert hobby]?”
With these types of personalized questions, you’ll be better able to make a connection from the get-go.
5. Practice Hesed
One of the pillars of Jewish faith is hesed, or kindness. By practicing kindness in your everyday life, you can enrich all of your relationships, including budding romantic relationships. Keep hesed in mind the next time you make a date. What is something kind you can do to make your date feel appreciated? Even if you’re not very religious, the concept of hesed can be a game-changer for you in 2016.
What are your resolutions for 2016? Tell us how you plan to give your love life a boost this year.