Chattanooga Times Free Press

4 tips for finding love in the new year

- BY EBONY WILLIAMS

A new year means a fresh start, and for many, that includes finding love. Sure, Tinder is offering a Premium service for $500 a month, but if you don’t have that kind of cash, then opting for an inperson approach might be the way to go.

“Love in 2024 promises to be a year of growth, surprises and meaningful connection­s,” according to lifestyle site Medium. “Whether you’re navigating the dating scene or nurturing a committed relationsh­ip, the cosmos has a plan in store for you. Embrace vulnerabil­ity, explore new experience­s and follow your heart’s desires.”

If you’re ready to find love in 2024, here are four ideas to help meet someone special:

› Throw a singles mixer.

According to research by the dating app Inner Circle, singles parties are on the rise as people experience app fatigue and prefer to meet someone the old-fashioned way. If you’re the party-planning type, throwing a singles mixer could help elevate your chances of meeting someone.

Tips for a good singles party include having some games to break the ice, providing guests with both alcoholic and nonalcohol­ic drink options and having adventurou­s foods.

› Create a vision board.

According to Psychology Today, mental practices (like visualizat­ion) can increase motivation and confidence. Getting together with some friends to create vision boards can be a great way to focus on what’s important to you.

“There are really no rules when it comes to vision boards, since it’s about crafting something that will inspire you to realize your dreams and goals on a daily basis,” explains Oprah Daily.

After you find your theme, it’s time to grab magazines and print pictures from the internet. According to the outlet, a vision board only works if it’s in a place where you can see it daily. For ideas to help inspire your vision board, check out Pinterest.

› Join a hobby group. Hobby groups and clubs are a great way to meet new people, and many of them are free to join. Not only can you widen your dating pool, but you can also learn a new skill or get in touch with your creative side.

MeetUp is a popular app that connects people with similar hobbies. Groups include volleyball, photograph­y and writing.

› Be alone. If you’re looking for love, being alone is probably the last thing you want to do. But “being single is an act of purging the clutter and making room for new thoughts (and dreams) to breathe and grow,” explained author and relationsh­ip expert Susan Winter in Time magazine.

“When you don’t need the company of others to enjoy yourself, people are naturally more drawn to you. People are drawn to confidence, and the ability to stand alone takes confidence,” adds Medium.

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