10 Things I've Learned From Profile Omissions

After having done the online dating thing for a number of years, I've come to recognize a few common things. One is that many people tend to reveal too much too soon about themselves because there is a false sense of comfort and familiarity that comes from reading (and re-reading) someone's profile. You tend to think you "know" them better than you do. Assuming that they have been truthful in their profile and that their photos are current and real, you may know a few things more than you would have. But you really don't know them any better than if you met them on the street. You only know what they want you to know - no more, no less. Second, I've learned that sometimes what's NOT listed (categories left blank or Match.com's default "I'll tell you later" answer) oftentimes provides you with a truer, more accurate insight into who they are.

I've had several years of experience from which to draw, and while this is by no means a scientific study and there is always an exception to every rule, here are 10 Things I've Learned.

1. If someone doesn't answer whether or not they believe in God, then they probably don't or at the very least have some sort of "issue" with religion.

2. If someone's picture is taken from far away or is fuzzy, then there is a reason for that.

3. If someone says that they are looking to "have fun," then that's usually all they are looking for. When the fun stops, as it inevitably will for a time when real life gets in the way, they're outta there.

4. If a man or woman is in his or her late 30's to early 40's and has never been married, there is a reason. And yes, I do fall into that category, too.

5. If no picture is posted at all, there is a reason.

6. If the "current relationship status" field is left blank, beware. They are still in one.

7. Just because someone has a profile posted online does not mean they are available. I've definitely had the experience of "Oh, that's so and so's boyfriend!"

8. Just because someone has a picture taken of themselves with a child does not mean they want or even like children.

9. Just because someone emails you does not mean that they care or regard what's in your profile, nor does it mean that they have even read it.

10. When someone includes a lot of statements about what they DON'T WANT IN ALL CAPS (like that), watch out because they are usually angry about something!