The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, the bees are buzzing, and the air conditioning is on -- summer is almost here.
In the world of dating, summer is usually associated with more casual flings, while relationships go hand in hand with winter months. After all, the months of October through February have even earned the name of "cuffing season." But I'd argue that June, July and August are great months to be single, especially if you're looking for a serious relationship.
When the online dating website and app Zoosk analyzed data from their 40 million users, they found that more people resubscribe in August than during any other time during the year and that August is the second most active month of the year for women, just behind October. They also found July is a "peak time for people trying online dating for the first time," meaning new people that might be a connection for you.
There are a few practical reasons why single people are more active on dating sites in the summer. First of all, people tend to be generally happier this season than the rest of the year, which is a great starting point to any date or conversation. Who wouldn't be happier when an outing doesn't require layers upon layers of clothing or the risk of a blizzard canceling your plans?
People might also have extra time to devote to dating with some time off from work or school, plus extended weekends thanks to holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. A Sunday night date suddenly becomes something to look forward to instead of a chore like it might be during other parts of the year.
And while there are always great date ideas year-round, the possibilities for activities in the summer are seemingly endless -- like checking out an outdoor winery, going for a walk along the beach (ice cream optional but encouraged) or wandering around a local fair. Even if you and your date don't exactly hit it off, it's hard to have a truly terrible time when you're enjoying the outdoors.
So, you're in a great mood, you have some time in your schedule, and you have exciting ideas in mind -- what should you do now to ensure a successful summer of matchmaking?
Well, you might want to think about giving your dating profile a mini seasonal makeover. Make sure your photos are updated, perhaps with a few cute shots featuring your tan. (Just remember -- sunglasses are great, but potential matches do want to see your eyes in your photos. Prop them up on your head like a headband for an instantly casual snap that shows off your face!) You may also want to include a little message bait with one of your goals for the season. Try something like, "Summer goal: Fly a kite or catch a fish -- anyone have tips?" or "Who wants to join me in finally crossing skydiving off my bucket list?"
Summer is a wonderful time to reset and relax, especially when you get to spend time doing the things you enjoy with friends and family. And with everyone waking up each morning with an extra boost (thank you, vitamin D ... and vaccines), it's also an excellent time to hit the dating scene. Cuffing season may be months away, but maybe it's time for a shakeup in the seasonal expectations. Alexa, play "Summer Nights" from "Grease" ...
(Erika Ettin is the founder of A Little Nudge, where she helps others navigate the often intimidating world of online dating. Want to connect with Erika? Join her newsletter, eepurl.com/dpHcH for updates and tips.)