Nervous about that first date after being in lockdown for so long? Try these tips from certified life and dating coach, Joanne Ng
With a reassuring smile, Joanne Ng acknowledges that the post-lockdown dating game has its challenges.
A certified life and dating coach of five years and CEO of elite matchmaking agency Dateworks, Ng has spent a great deal of time lately helping her clients prepare for the realities of post-lockdown meetings, including the awkwardness and anxiety that come with being back out in society after months of self-isolation.
"At this time, just meeting our own friends and family members is still a concern, what more with a date," she says. "That said, the worries will never end; it’s how we manage them, I feel, that's more important."
On September 7, Dateworks announced the introduction of its private dating rooms for fully vaccinated singles to meet in-person once again, all in compliance with social distancing SOPs and compulsory masking.
See also: Online Dating During Covid-19: Thoughts From 2 Matchmaking Experts
"Our focus with this is to ensure that singles have a safe space to meet in-person, as many singles have put their relationship goals on hold for more than a year, due to concerns for their safety. The prolonged closures affect not only the nation’s economy and businesses, but also the wellbeing of all Malaysians. Many singles are emerging from the pandemic craving more interaction than ever before but feeling woefully out of practice."
To help ensure a smooth post-lockdown date, Ng offers these simple tips for a more meaningful and happy outing.
Dine out with a friend or relative first
"For many of us, the first time going out to dine in a restaurant after an extended lockdown can be very scary," Ng says. "I often tell my clients to find a friend or family member that they're close to, and go out for a meal with that person first to get comfortable with the idea of being out again. Of course, safety is top priority and SOPs should be followed."
Subsequent outings will become less of a source of anxiety, and you'll also develop a good idea of what health SOPs to expect when dining out.
"Honestly, I think all of us in some ways are going to be a little socially awkward," says Ng. "But we all play a role in getting back to some degree of normalcy. Last weekend, I told my kids that I was going to book a private room for them because I wanted to take them out so they could learn how to dine-in again in a restaurant and practise social skills, as well as double-masking, wearing a face shield properly, and so on!"
Related: Dine-In At Hotels In The Klang Valley: Opening Hours & SOPs