Everyone knows what Tinder is - they've either used the application themselves or they know someone who uses it. Since its launch in 2012, the so-called dating app has now grown to an estimated 50 million users.
But there's still a stigma that comes with using the application. Though Tinder is specifically designed for meeting and talking to new people, there are some users who may not want to do that. Not many people are comfortable with meeting a stranger from Tinder, or even admitting to anyone that they have the desire to do so.
Aside from that, and for women especially, Tinder can be an abrasive experience. Not every man or woman a user encounters is the most polite person you'll ever meet. Coming from personal experience, I've had men make some pretty vulgar remarks to me after "swiping right," which gives them the "OK" to talk to me. But really, no one wants to be harassed when they're just trying to make friends.
However, I've looked past the negativity and have created a happy, healthy environment for myself in my personal "Tinderverse." And here's how you can too:
1. Keep an open mind
This is by far the hardest thing to do, but if you continue to have a positive outlook every time you open your application, good things will happen.
2. Talk to people in the same way you'd like to be spoken to
It's something we've heard since childhood, but the Golden Rule applies to Tinder just as it does to life outside of it. If you're respectful, no matter what your gender, the person you're reaching out to will most likely respond with the same courtesy.
3. Don't take everything so personally
If you get a rude message from someone you "swiped right" on; block them. There are millions of other people out there that want to say nice things to you - don't dwell on the negativity. Just keep swiping!
4. Only swipe right if you're ready and willing to talk to that person
I know sometimes it can be tempting to swipe right for people you would never actually speak to, but in reality, it's a waste of time. "Swipe left," or pass, on the people you don't want to talk to. Just because they're there doesn't mean you're obligated to like them.
5. Have fun!
The best part about Tinder is the experiences you'll have from using it. Laugh at those occasional ridiculous messages because they're ridiculous, talk to that ridiculously attractive man you never thought you'd match with in a million years, and if someone's messing with you, block them or put them in their place... and then block them.
Dating, whether it is on or offline, should be a positive experience. Ignore the hate, and just keep swimming... I mean SWIPING!