Love in COVID times is all about staying power

The uncertainty over the past few months combined with the retreat into isolation and loss of jobs and security has sparked a rewrite of values, with timeless and enduring relationships back in vogue.

QUEENSLANDERS have never craved love more than during the COVID-19 pandemic, and demographics experts are reporting that lasting relationships and valuable connections are now life’s new priorities.

The uncertainty and anxiety of the virus, the retreat into isolation, and the loss of jobs and security have sparked a rewrite of values, with timeless and enduring relationships back in vogue, Mark McCrindle told The Sunday Mail.

And while a typical date is likely to break every social distancing restriction in the state, Queenslanders are ready to fall in love – even from a distance of 1.5m.

Existing live-in relationships have also been boosted as couples work together at home, talk and renew bonds, the expert said.

“Our research shows that 21 per cent of relationships have been strengthened.

“Many Queenslanders will have found their partners have become less selfish and more aware of what is involved in the running of a household.

“Of course, there will be those who will have found the time together stressful, but generally,

Pricilla Tarabay is looking for face-to-face love. Picture: Jamie Hanson

I think people have needed to lean on each other, and that will stick post-COVID-19,” he said.

The dating scene has taken a turn too, with young singles more inclined to look for good conversation and staying power in a partner.

Today’s romance needs to fulfil the soul rather than fast-flip, heartless, online dating, where singles are abruptly rejected with a quick swipe.

New dating apps are prepared for this shift, with one conversation-based offering encouraging voice messages over texts.

The Talk Before Text app, which recognises the need to personalise tech connections, was the brainchild of Australians Ronnie Giandzi, Sam Smith and Zak Abdul Jalil from tech start-up Concha.

“When you hear a person’s voice, it takes away the loneliness and you get a feel for their character from the tone of their voice and their conversation,” Ms Giandzi said.

“There is a greater feeling of wellbeing, which is badly needed during the pandemic.”

Mr McCrindle said the pandemic had been tougher on younger singles than older ones.

“For the young, six months of isolation will seem like an eternity, but older singles realise this too will pass,” he said.

“Life and love have slowed down. It is not all rush and bustle, and that has been good for sensible reflection.”

Pricilla Tarabay is 19 and calls herself an old-fashioned girl.

“I’m not into fast online dating. I like to meet a boy face to face and look into their eyes and get a feeling for the type of person they are,” she said.

“I think the pandemic has made young people rethink what they are after in a relationship. I am still young but many want commitment and stability.”