There’s no denying that the 2020 film and TV seasons were pretty tough for romantics. Whether it was a celebrity break-up or a public cheating scandal, our screens were filled with less love stories than we’ve had in years.
Sure, we got the happy couple – or, rather, the happy families – but they were certainly the exception rather than the rule. In fact, the only love stories that really worked this year were the ones that were kept private. Think Anne Hathaway and Adam Shulman. Or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson.
While the #MeToo movement made some waves in 2019, social taboos surrounding infidelity and a broken heart remained. And, as always, the press were on hand to capture every juicy detail of the celebrity couples’ lives (we can’t wait for the Kristen and Robert bobblehead dolls).
Why are we so obsessed with celebrity breakups? Is it because we relate to their glamorous lives and want to emulate their success? Or is it because, in the wake of the pandemic, infidelity and romantic scandals seemed like the only way to deal with the pain of losing a lover?
Whatever the reason, romantic comedy hasn’t been the same since.
And what about those private romances that do manage to stay together? Isn’t there something special about celebrating happy endings? Or is keeping your love a novelty too?
These are interesting times, and we wanted to know what readers thought about the state of romance in 2020. To find out, we created a survey that asked respondents about their experience of dating in the past year as well as a number of other interesting questions. We hope you enjoy it!
How Do You Feel About Online Dating?
While we’re not suggesting you cut off your social media relationships entirely (or, at least, not just because of the pandemic), we are suggesting that you take a break from dating websites and apps. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with them – it’s just that they’re not made for relationships, and most definitely not for meeting new people.
The truth is that you can find anything you want on those platforms, and sometimes it can feel like a bit of a chore. Sure, you can have a laugh, and maybe even make a friend or two, but is that really what you want out of your dating life right now?
Why not meet people in real life where you can interact with them, rather than simply matching with someone you’ve never actually talked to?
Do You Consider Yourself to Be An Active or Passive Partner When It Comes to Dates?
There are active and passive ways to be involved in a relationship, and while it can be tricky to figure out which one you are, the distinction really does make a difference. You can read more about active versus passive dating here, but, in a nutshell, if you’re going out on a limb to try and please your partner – if you’re doing all the emotional work and giving all the attention to your lover – then you’re likely to be on the passive end of the spectrum. If you’re just going along for the ride, getting what you want without trying too hard, then you’re more likely to be an active partner.
Unfortunately (or, perhaps, fortunately), many happy couples meet online and then settle down together. While you might like the convenience of online dating, it really never leads to anything good. Going online to find a mate is never a good idea, and, for the most part, it’s a full-time job that you shouldn’t even think about taking on.
How Much Does Your Partner’s Parental Approval Matter To You?
Yes, this is a bit of a weird question, but parental approval is one of the most important things to consider when dating someone. It doesn’t always have to come from the parent but, as the old adage goes, “it’s easier for a parent to say no than for a friend to say yes.”
If you’re still living with your parents, this is something you need to talk to them about. It might not be easy, but you’ll be better off if you bring this topic up soon so you can begin to plan your future together. Believe it or not, your parents don’t always have to be involved in your life. Even if it’s been tough at times, you’re an adult now, and they should no longer be a part of your life. This is something you need to work through with them so they can approve of the person you’re dating.
Do You Think It’s Time For A Senior Citizen Dating Scandal?
Many believe that, for the most part, infidelity among seniors doesn’t exist. While there’s no denying that marriages at senior levels are becoming less stable, there’s also no denying that some long-married couples still manage to have an intimate relationship. Is it because their bodies have finally given up the ghost or, as some would like to believe, because they can keep their freedom of movement and travel independently?
Whether or not you believe that infidelity is on the rise among seniors, certainly there’s no denying that some of the older generation are still going about their business with little regard for what society expects of them. So, while we’re not suggesting that you rush into a commitment with a senior citizen, if you feel something’s missing from your relationship, maybe it’s time for a little adventure.
Does Your Favorite Celebrity Have A Cheeky Sense of Humor?
Whether or not you’re looking for romance, there are plenty of humorous elements in the media that you enjoy. From Daniel Craig’s exaggerated antics to the dry wit of Donald Trump, you can always find something to laugh at – and that’s exactly what you should be doing, regardless of your current relationship status.
What makes a celebrity funny? Often, it’s the way they carry themselves. Do they have a cheeky grin that you find endearing? Do they make you chuckle with their clever one-liners? Does their sense of humor make you feel like you’re in the company of a friend even though you’ve never met them?
It’s no surprise that celebrities enjoy making people laugh. Humor is incredibly important to a good relationship. It can be a way to lighten the mood and, in some cases, even forge an emotional connection. If you find that your relationship with your partner is becoming a little tense, perhaps it’s time to bring a little laughter into the mix.
Did we miss any important questions? If you think we left out an important topic, please let us know in the comments below.