Topic: Dating. Claire Jackson started online dating in her 30s, now she helps other singles looking for love. If online dating was considered an Olympic sport, Claire Jackson would be a marathon gold medallist. Fortunately, 49 first dates later, Claire found her Mr Right. But she didn't want her comprehensive cataloguing to go to waste. That's why she started a "profile primping" service for singles looking for love.
For some people, self-comparison can lead down a problematic path. Claire says when she started online dating after a break-up in her early 30s, she initially felt pressured to present an enhanced version of herself. According to Gery Karantzas, director of Deakin's Science of Adult Relationships Laboratory, presenting a smarter, funnier, fitter or more attractive version of yourself won't help your chances of finding a mate. Claire Jackson and Gery Karantzas agree: if you're not an outdoorsy type, don't pretend you are on your dating profile.
Unsplash: Laurentiu Morariu. Mr Karantzas says a better approach is to think about your innate qualities and how they match up with the three characteristics that people look for in a partner. He characterises them as:. Mr Karantzas says that people wanting a short-term relationship or fling may prioritise vitality and attractiveness, but that doesn't mean these characteristics are superficial. Broadly speaking, however, the first and third categories are the ones that matter most to love-seekers, including those on online sites and apps.
Get our newsletter for the best of ABC Lifestyle each week. So, how do we put our best foot forward without being inauthentic? Here are Claire Jackson's top tips to building a dating profile that properly represents you:.
An earlier version of this story included two lines that was harmful to those living with chronic illnesses and people with disabilities, which have been removed.
