Match Group, the company behind Tinder, has announced plans to exit the Russian market by the end of June. In response to this move, psychologist Elena Kuznetsova spoke with socialbites.ca, offering guidance on how people in Canada and the United States can approach meeting others in real life after such developments.
According to Kuznetsova, the first step is to take an honest look at personal fears. “Identify what exactly holds you back from meeting new people. Some fear rejection or failure, others worry about being uninteresting or out of place. Once those fears are named, work can begin on reducing their impact,” she explained.
The psychologist suggested reframing dating as a game rather than a pressure-filled task. This playful approach can lower anxiety and make social interactions feel less intimidating, especially in markets where dating norms may be shifting due to changes in app availability.
Kuznetsova recommended sharpening listening abilities and practicing empathy, along with participating in small, organized networking or social events. For people in North America, these activities can create low-stakes environments where conversations flow more naturally and connections form more easily.
Experts note that relationship dynamics can be influenced by underlying stressors. In this context, it is valuable to look for consistent patterns in behavior and communication. Being mindful of these patterns helps in choosing partners who share similar interests and values, reducing the chance of mismatches or miscommunications.
While online dating remains popular, in-person encounters still play a crucial role in understanding compatibility. A balanced approach—combining thoughtful online outreach with real-world meetings—tends to yield steadier progress over time. Customized plans that fit individual personalities and schedules tend to work best.
In addition to practical steps, Kuznetsova emphasized the importance of self-reflection. People should assess their expectations, learn how to manage nerves before conversations, and cultivate a confident but respectful presence. This mindset supports healthier connections and helps people interpret signals more accurately, avoiding misinterpretations that can derail early interactions.
For those concerned about safety in dating, it’s essential to set clear boundaries and recognize red flags early. Observing how a potential partner communicates, respects boundaries, and handles disagreements provides important clues about long-term compatibility and mutual respect.
The discussion also touches on the broader media and cultural shifts that accompany corporate decisions like Match Group’s exit from a market. For North American audiences, staying adaptable, cultivating social skills, and building a network of supportive peers can help maintain momentum in dating life, regardless of platform availability. These strategies support meaningful connections in real life as well as through digital avenues. [Citation: Elena Kuznetsova, socialbites.ca]