How to manage different objectives in an online relationship

When you're online, it's easy to focus on the differences between you and the other person. After all, you can't see or hear the subtleties of non-verbal communication, and you don't have the same physical proximity. This can make it difficult to deal with differences of opinion and purpose, but there are a few tips you can follow to help.

First of all, remember that you probably have a lot in common. You're both online, which means you have at least one interest in common. What's more, you probably have a certain affinity for the same things, otherwise you wouldn't be communicating. Keep this in mind when you disagree about something, and try to focus on what you have in common rather than what separates you.

Then be open and honest about your goals. If you're online to find love, say so. If you're online to make friends, say so. If you're online to find sexual partners, say that too. There's no shame in having different goals, but it's important to be honest about them so you can find someone with the same goals as you.

Thirdly, try to put yourself in the other person's shoes. If you can't agree on something, try to see things from the other person's point of view. You might be surprised at how much this can help you understand what they're trying to tell you. What's more, it can help you find common ground.

Finally, remember that you don't have to agree on everything. Differences of opinion and goals are part of life, and they can even be an important part of what makes a relationship interesting. If you can't agree, try to find a way to respect each other's differences and keep the online relationship strong.