Okay, so, I’ve been messing around with this idea of combining self-preservation instincts, the Enneagram, and, you know, dating apps. It’s kinda out there, but I wanted to see if there was anything to it. So, I started by just thinking about it, like, what even is my self-preservation instinct in the Enneagram world?
I did some digging around, reading some stuff, you know, just getting my bearings. I figured out that I’m probably a type 6, and my dominant instinct is for sure self-preservation. I’m always thinking about security, comfort, and making sure my basic needs are met. Super fun at parties, I know.
My Dating App Experiment
So, armed with this, I started to look at dating apps with some criteria.
I am looking for some of the features to help me:
- Safety First: Apps with good safety features were a must. I wanted verified profiles, easy blocking, and clear reporting mechanisms. No sketchy vibes allowed.
- Real People, Please: I looked for apps that seemed to have a decent number of, well, real people. Not just bots or fake profiles. Like I should have a profile checker.
- My Kind of Vibe: I tried to find apps that were geared more towards, like, actual relationships, not just hookups.
- Match Quality:Using the apps that have matching features, especially using the compatibility rating.
Then came the actual using the apps part. I spent some time swiping, chatting, the whole deal. I will say, I was way more aware of how I was presenting myself. I tried to be upfront about valuing security and wanting to take things slow. My profiles were made in detail. Instead of putting the short and simple profile, I tried to be clear on my expectations, and values I want to be delivered.
And you know what? It felt…different. I wasn’t just mindlessly swiping. I was actually thinking about whether someone seemed like they’d be a good fit for my, shall we say, cautious approach to life.
I also looked at some of the profiles of other people, to check what they’re looking for, any signs of similar needs for a relationship.
I even went on a few dates! It was interesting to see how my self-preservation instinct played out in person. I definitely noticed myself being extra aware of my surroundings, making sure I felt safe, and maybe being a little slower to open up. But it also felt good to be, like, true to myself, you know?
I even unmatched a few people that seemed to be totally incompatible to me, with no regrets.
Overall, it was a cool experiment. I’m not saying I found “the one” or anything, but it definitely made me think more consciously about how my personality type and instincts affect my dating life. It’s a work in progress, for sure, but hey, at least I’m learning something about myself along the way, right? It’s like, I’m taking care of myself while trying to find someone. Win-win!
