By Thanh Kacic

 According to a recent survey by an online media company, online dating is considered ?crucial? by 21 per cent of the British population. This survey also found that more than a third of us feel stressed if we are not connected to the internet. Online dating seems to suit our modern, fast paced lives.


London has a population similar to that of the country of Austria, so you would think it would be easy to find a soul mate, or at least a date. But actually if you ask most Londoners, or look at the most populated sections on dating sites, you'll find London is actually a tough place for cupid and his arrow.

The city has some of the longest working hours in Europe as well as high stress levels and an infamous, although possibly unfair, reputation for being unfriendly, therefore it's not surprising it has more single people than any other UK city.

People generally move to London, the population of true 'born and bred' Londoners is actually quite small. So seeing as you haven't grown up with these people, you work too much and you're moody on the bus home after a hectic day it is not really surprising you don't meet the love of your life.

Therefore online dating makes sense. Gone are the days when you met someone in a club and because you both like 'DJ whoever' and 'Band X' you must be made for each other.

Today you can list the things you are into, the kind of person you are looking for and include a few words about your own personality. This should result in less two week relationships based on one band and more long-term monogamous partnerships based on common interests and life goals.

Furthermore, online dating is now more accessible. You can check your dating page when you get home from work in the comfort of your own home. No embarrassing pauses or why-did-I-say-that moments and you can see what a potential partner looks like in the light of day.

Dating sites have taken over the role of your best friend. No more blind dates with this 'really nice guy from the office'. Now you get to matchmake for yourself.

Thanh Kacic is the author of this article. If you are looking for Glasgow dating, or you are interested in lesbian or gay dating the Guardian Soulmates website provide a safe, secure and anonymous way to find and communicate with people of your choice.

LGBT Issues