TopMatch Dating Blog

How to Really Love a Woman

2011-12-20T14:08:00.000Z

Many men think they know how to love a woman, but you can see evidence of the contrary in the fact most relationships don't last six months nowadays. What a man calls love and what a woman calls love are two different things. A woman constantly needs reassurance of love in the relationship. Many men however, still act like they are cavemen. What I mean is they are excited about the chase, and they will do anything to win the girl. Once they achieve that goal, the effort and the love begin to fade. Here are some tips on how to find the woman of your dreams, and if you already have her, some tips to keep her.

This may sound extremely simple, but tell her you love her. Tell her when she least expects it, and tell her often. A sure sign that you are not telling her enough, is if she asks you the question, "Do you love me?". The reason why she is asking is because she is unsure if you really do, so you can gain major points by telling her often. Write it on her mirror, leave her a note, text her, just tell her.

When you were courting or chasing the girl in your life you loved everything about her. Now that you have her, you see flaws and you let her know about them. Stop critiquing your girl about her short comings, and love her for who she is, completely. You woman may be sexy, intelligent and even generous, but that isn't why you love her. You love her for all of what she is. Tell her you think she is sexy once in a while, and watch her eyes light up.

If you want to make your relationship last, you must live in the moment. What I mean is, do not dwell on the past. Do not bring up ex-boyfriends, ex-lovers or times you remember your girl was less than faithful. If you are committed to be in a relationship you need to stop looking in the rear view mirror, and drive forward. The easiest way to kill your relationship is to berate her over things that happened in the past. Let it go, or you will be soon letting her go.

You want your girl to love you, then start by loving yourself. If you love yourself, you will receive love in return. If you are telling yourself good things and loving the person you are, you can only express that same love to the woman in your life. She will see and feel your love and give it back to you ten fold.

Do you find yourself saying that your wife/girlfriend doesn't know you? Want to know what that really is saying? You don't understand the woman in your life. If you want your relationship to grow, you should get to know her better. I mean all her likes, dislikes, just take a genuine interest in her and watch a miracle happen. She will see you are interested in her brain and not just her body. She will see you in a whole new light.

Pay attention to her as well, because if you don't, there is a guy nearby that will. Did you know that many of the habits your girl has, that you think annoy you to no end, are simply her way of trying to get your attention? Woman love attention, it is very simple to miss this tip if you aren't aware of it. You will begin ignoring her annoyances, when in reality they are attempts to get you to come closer to her. You do not have to be a puppy on a lease around her, just give her some unexpected attention. Tell her that her shoes look amazing, tell her that her hair looks nice, ask her how was her day, and genuinely pay attention.

One final tip is to never go to bed angry. This can save your relationship if you practice it enough. If you ignore it, your fights will become more frequent and will eventually end the relationship. If you have a fight, cool off, then go to her before bed and tell her you love her and do not like fighting. Agree to disagree and sleep together in the bed. You need to both be grateful for every day you two are together. Try telling her everyday, in different ways that you love her. You will build a strong unit that will last a long time.

Are Arranged Marriages such a bad idea?

2011-12-18T11:38:00.000Z

No matter what anybody says, 99% of people are horrible at dating. Even outside of awkward, silent first dates, people often spend months pretending to be someone they aren’t, or endless hours feigning interest in another person’s passion just to look good. We all seem to set ourselves up for failure without even realizing it.

Honestly, there’s something to be said about arranged marriages: other people who know two individuals intimately put them together for the rest of their lives. While there are certainly faults with this, it kind of makes sense: both parties know the worst aspects of the two people they’re putting together, and the new couple has to make it work.

Of course, there are so many pitfalls to an arranged marriage that putting that out there as an alternative to dating is borderline insane (a trait we wouldn’t want someone to see on the first, or twentieth, date). And that’s where TopMatch UK comes in. Unlike other dating services, we provide you with a personal dating consultant to help match you to someone else with the same goals, interests and beliefs as you. However, unlike an arranged marriage, you still retain complete control over your love life! Not only will your potential mate work well with you on paper, but he or she will also be recommended by someone who has a deep understanding of what you need and want in a relationship, making it possible for even the worst daters to find meaningful and healthy relationships.

Finding love on your smartphone

2011-09-21T09:37:00.003+01:00

The internet has changed the way we run our lives completely and dramatically. The changes the web has brought are still resonating as traditional high street shopping starts to hit hard times.

But the smartphone is taking things to a new level altogether. It's nothing short of revolutionary.

Apparently, according to Neilsen, 31% of US mobile phone owners had a smartphone by December 2010, a figure that's already looking seriously out of date.

They expect smartphone usage to rise to at least 95 million in 2011.

Gartner research shows 297 million smartphones in use during 2010, 19% of the 1.6 billion mobiles sold that year. Code Research predicts global smartphone users will hit the 2.5 billion mark by 2015 and there are various predictions about how soon smartphones will take over from the humble desktop PC. Some say as soon as 2012.

Many website owners are in a spin because their complicated, resource-heavy websites don't display properly on a smartphone. Luckily the marketing experts at TopMatch saw the writing on the wall and acted accordingly. Their website is beautifully simple and clear, so displays perfectly on a smartphone screen without losing functionality.

All of which means you can use yours to surf around TopMatch matchmaking services, identify fellow professional singles you like the look of and get as deeply involved in flirting as you want to, all without having to sit down at your PC.

Love on the move for an increasingly busy world... that's TopMatch dating!

(Thanks to http://www.sxc.hu/profile/branox for the image)

Avoid online dating nightmares

2011-09-07T12:04:00.003+01:00

We went to dinner with friends last weekend and were regaled with horror stories about one woman's dreadul experiences with an online dating site... which will remain nameless!

On one occasion our friend met someone she thought was lovely but they ended up practically stalking her, to the extent she was actually frightened.

Another two men she connected with sent her photos of themselves stark naked very early on in the process - which is downright peculiar as well as extremely creepy. Apparently they were genuinely surprised and offended when she objected and cut contact. It makes you wonder what on earth goes on in some people's minds!

The last thing you need when you're busy and time-poor is having to repel peculiar, dysfunctional time-wasters. It's enough to make you lose your faith in human nature! Naturally I told her about TopMatch, where absolutely nobody gets through the net without being thoroughly vetted first, in person, by a real, live relationship expert and professional matchmaker.

TopMatch is unique. No other online dating service comes complete with a personal dating consultant. And that's just the beginning.

We're dedicated to providing a dating experience that's genuine, fun and on your wavelength. We've designed our service so it suits the needs of professional people. We're professionals ourselves. So do yourself a favour, forget about the other online dating sites and join us for genuine good times. You're more likely to find the love of your life with us than anywhere else!

Why is it so good to be loved?

2011-08-24T10:49:00.004+01:00

Single life can be great fun.

When you're young and carefree there's pubs to go to, clubs to let rip in and flirting to be done.

When you're an older single you can have the time of your life indulging yourself in things you always wanted to do when you were married or living together. Stuff like lying in 'til noon, drinking fine wine in bed, reading all day at the weekend or getting up at 3am for snacks. You can do what you want, when you want, with whom you want.

So why does it feel so good to be loved?

I reckon you can spot someone in love. When you're happy you give off happy signals that other people can pick up a mile off. You look better. Your skin looks great and your hair's shiny. You walk with confidence. Because you tend to buy new clothes you look smarter from the outside too. And you're nicer, seeing the world and everyone in it through rose tinted love shades!

On a more serious side being in love has physical effects too, particularly for men. Older single men don't fare very well compared to older men with loving partners. On average they're less physically well, less healthy, less fit. Older women thrive in partnerships too, being healthier and more resilient than single ladies. When we're in love we're just... better.

It's no surprise really. We're built to live in twos and we actually seem to droop when we're lonely.

Best of all, the love effect doesn't diminish once that first flush of excitement and lust has passed. When you settle into that wonderful place where you love each other more every day and things just keep getting better, it continues. It's like miracle medicine. I should know. I'm still smiling thirteen years after meeting my lovely man.

Professional, single and searching for love? Come to TopMatch and we'll soon match you with someone who dings your bell for life.

Join TopMatch with a friend and only pay one membership fee

2011-08-10T10:23:00.001+01:00

Some things are far too good to ignore. Our 'two for one' join with a friend offer is one of them. But why is it such a good idea to team up with a mate on your search for real love?

For a start, going tandem means there's always someone to talk to about the new people you meet, the dates you go on and how you feel about them. Because you're both in exactly the same boat at the same time, you won't bore each other to death!

Double dating can be great fun, an excellent way to meet lovely new people when you tend to be shy and reserved. Breaking the conversational ice is often easier when there's four of you - you can always meet alone for subsequent dates if you hit it off.

You've both got your own Personal Dating Consultant, of course, so there's always someone to talk things through with, whether it's about something simple like what to wear on your first date or more complex like any subconscious barriers you might have against falling in love. But having a friend to talk to as well can be the icing on the cake.

If you're not feeling too confident in yourself, a good friend will talk you up and help you feel better about yourself. And, if you need someone 'in the know' to laugh or cry with, a good friend is just the ticket.

Do you have to join with a same-sex friend? No. If you're female you're more than welcome to join with a male friend and vice versa.

Best of all, when you join TopMatch with a friend we'll only charge you one membership fee. Just split it between you for the professional dating bargain of the century!

Are you ready for a summer of love?

2011-07-27T10:10:00.004+01:00

Oh, isn't the summer lovely! But it's even lovelier when you're head over heels with someone special. There's so much to do outdoors and it's great doing it in good company.

If you've just hooked up with true romance via TopMatch, here's some unusual, romantic and fun ideas to whet your appetite and help the love flow!

If you're anywhere near the sea there's nothing better than a day out exploring the coast. If you're hardy types you can get together for a good, long walk or a coastal cycling adventure, complete with a packed lunch or pub food. If you love dressing up and making an impression plan a Jack Vetriano-style beach date, dressed in dinner jacket and ball gown, complete with the poshest picnic you can rustle up between you. Think champagne... but travel on the bus so you can both enjoy a tipple!

There's the countryside too. When was the last time you rode a horse? Or took a stroll in the green stuff? A country walk is one of the most romantic things you can do, ranging across rolling fields, over misty escarpments and through secret, cool forests with dappled pools and sparkling lakes. Take it up a notch and there's always extreme sports to try together, increasingly popular for people of all ages. Bungee jumping, white water rafting, caving, ghyll scrambling...

Are you city lovers? If the thought of being stuck out in the countryside gives you nightmares, take a train to an exciting city or town near you. It's great fun when neither of you has been before - you can discover cathedrals and museums, scenic alleyways and secret gardens, amazing architecture, restaurants and pubs, shopping centres and ancient monuments together, topping off your day with a show or an evening at the cinema

Last but never least, there's your garden. It's private, you've got everything you need to hand indoors and a mellow barbecue can deliver just as much fun and romance as the most expensive restaurant. Especially when you've had a heavy week!

2011-07-13T11:12:00.002+01:00

According to one online dating commentator, singles are 'screaming from the rooftops' for 'new types' of dating sites.

But dig a bit deeper and you find what people like you actually want is an online dating service site that matches your expectations and dovetails with your needs properly. Not yet more gimmicks, gadgets, deals, offers and so-called innovations.

When you're a professional person with a busy, complicated life you want to meet like-minded people, not have to wade through thousands of unlikely candidates that you'd never consider in a million years. The the last thing you want is an 'one size fits all' dating site that wastes your time, money and energy rather than saving it.

We believe the solution is to keep things simple.

There's specific gay dating sites, religious dating sites, over 50s and under 30s sites. But we're the only place where computer technology blends with personal support, face to face and over the phone, to deliver genuine professional matches to hard working, intelligent, time-poor people like you.

Quantity is rarely better than quality. Treat yourself to a matchmaking service run exclusively by relationship professionals, for professionals, and cut right to the point!

The only thing dating with TopMatch CAN'T do for you!

2011-06-29T10:14:00.004+01:00

Have you ever known someone who looks gorgeous, you get on brilliantly with and who likes all the same things as you... but for some reason you just don't fancy them?

Isn't it strange? You'd think all the key ingredients were in place. So why are you 'just friends'? And why don't you fall head over heels in love?

The answer lies in your immune system. Put simply, if your immune systems are too similar that all-important physical attraction just doesn't arise. But when your immune systems are different enough and everything else is right, boy do the sparks fly!

How do we tell whether someone's immune system is different from ours? We do it unconsciously via our sense of smell and it's incredibly subtle. If he or she doesn't 'smell' right, it's very unlikely that love is on the cards.

It's an evolutionary imperative, vital for creating healthy children with what scientists call 'hybrid vigour'. It happens to plants, insects, fish and our fellow mammals too. In a purely physical sense, opposites really do attract!

Sadly matching immune systems is the one thing that dating with TopMatch can't do for you. Or not yet, anyway! But happily, everything else is taken care of. Your Personal Dating Consultant, with the help of our state of the art computer software, will match all this and more to identify lovely people on your wavelength:

your preferred physical attributes - things like height, build, hair and eye colour
your interests and hobbies - whether you're into extreme sports or bird watching, cinema noire or computer games, cooking or interior decor
the things you want out of a relationship
your outlook on life, the universe and everything

Do it our way and you're almost there, saving all sorts of hassle and heartache. The 'smell' bit is up to you!

Single professionals: Can you afford not to join TopMatch?

2011-06-15T09:35:00.007+01:00

Times are tough. Food prices are increasing. The cost of petrol is going through the roof, with no sign of going back down for a while. The recession rumbles on across Europe and beyond.

All of which means TopMatch membership is a better deal than ever. How come? Because it saves you money as well as finding the love of your life.

Say you're looking for love the traditional way by going out and about, socialising and widening your social circle. There's the cost of travelling, whether you're staying sober and taking the car, or using a cab or bus. Then there's drinks. If you're on mainland Europe things aren't too bad. But UK duty and tax means your humble pint seldom costs less than £3.50. Wine by the glass is extortionate in pubs. Spirits are hideously expensive. And that's without eating out, which is excellent fun but rarely cheap.

At the risk of sounding pessimistic it's probably not too clever, from a financial perspective, to hook up with someone lovely who lives miles away either. Imagine the travel costs! And the energy levels required. I'm feeling tired already.

When you take your search for true romance online you sidestep all these costs as well as potentially saving your sanity, health and well being! Instead of spending endless nights out and running yourself ragged all the way to the poorhouse, you spend enjoyable quality time on-screen, identifying potential soul mates.

Because our Personal Dating Consultants meet all our members in person you save money and potential heartache by preventing time wasters, liars and frauds getting aboard. And you'll have their ongoing support throughout the process, making it much more effective and efficient than regular online dating.

So if you're feeling the squeeze, pop along to TopMatch and cut the cost of finding true love!

Spring fever – Online dating blossoms in the sunshine!

2011-05-31T15:18:00.004+01:00

If you live in the UK you’ll have enjoyed some wonderful early spring weather. In the South East it’s been the driest spring for half a century or more. Which is a bit of a disaster for gardens, crops and wildlife. But great news if you’re in the market for a fresh new relationship!

How come? Spring has sprung early this year. And the moment the weather turns for the better, humans come out of hibernation. The evenings are lighter. We wear lighter, brighter clothes and show a bit more flesh. The sun gives us a nice healthy glow. And, like the rest of the animal kingdom, we’re in the mood for love.

At this time of year the surge in new TopMatch members is always noticeable. Everyone feels better, we look better and summer is on the horizon, always an excellent reason for optimism!

If you’re a professional single looking for love, why not hop on board? There’s loads of new members waiting to meet you, all looking for love and romance. Like you they’re professional people – this isn’t the kind of online dating site that's suitable for anyone and everyone. And our personal dating consultants are on hand to help you along your way with sensible advice, empathy and friendly ongoing support. In person and on the end of the telephone. Which is a really good deal.

So make this summer the season you shed your single status… and find someone special to share the beautiful weather with.

Online dating - Should you confess the good, the bad and the ugly?

2011-05-18T11:35:00.003+01:00

You're about to complete a personal profile for an online dating site. But you're not sure how to approach it...

Is it a good idea to portray yourself as some kind of latter day saint, complete with halo and impeccable personal history? Or is is best to let it all hang out and confess the good, the bad and the ugly side of your personality?

If you cover up your very human inadequacies - and we all have them - you risk giving someone a surprise when they get to know you better and your self-imposed mask slips! But if you shout your less than wonderful traits from the rooftops loud and proud up front, you might put people off.

Too perfect and you look cocky. Too imperfect and you look... well, slightly scary! Neither is the best relationship bet.

Like so much else in life, it's a balancing act. One reviewer on a site that comments on the online dating industry claims to love it when single women let him have a glimpse of the real person behind the profile. It makes him much more likely to get in touch when they do it with charm and wit.

All of which requires a sure touch with words. It can be tricky when you're not at your most fluent in writing. Luckily when you date fellow professionals via TopMatch your Personal Dating Consultant will help you achieve the right balance. And ultimately attract the right kind of people. Which is worth its weight in dating gold!

The fine art of online flirting

2011-05-04T11:58:00.003+01:00

Online dating has taken the stigma out of the search for love. Newspaper lonely hearts columns used to be the butt of many a joke. It was embarrassing to admit you'd given it a go. And it was just as time consuming as trying to find love in real life, person to person.

Searching for love online is both fashionable and fast. Most interesting of all, a whole new social discipline has been born as a result. It's online flirting. And it's here to stay.

Have you learned the gentle art of getting to know someone better in writing? If not here's a few handy tips to get your keyboard flirting skills in gear at TopMatch, home to the best in personal dating services for professionals.

Online flirting dos and don'ts...

never use all capitals UNLESS YOU REALLY WANT TO SHOUT AT SOMEONE!
try not to get carried away and write stuff you'll be embarrassed about when you meet someone you like the look of face to face
you're a professional person, but don't write as though you're taking notes in a meeting. Write the same way you speak and you can't go far wrong
having said that, if you come across too slang-y you might not make the best impression!
take care not to give away too much information until you've met someone. We vet everyone who joins us face to face first so you'll be safe with us. But it's better to take common sense precautions even so
be friendly and open, enthusiastic and positive, letting your personality show through
find common ground and take it from there. Our system plus your Personal Dating Consultant will point you in the right direction, identifying like minded singles with the same sort of views and outlook as you. You take it from there, in control of your own levels of intimacy
last but not least... have fun! That's what it's all about. The more you flirt in writing, the better you'll get

Yet another reason to choose TopMatch to find love

2011-04-20T10:01:00.003+01:00

The real, live, human aspect of our hybrid online / personal dating service has always been one of our best sellers, the thing that attracts most attention from professional singles seeking love. And a recent and very nasty case in the USA has made our Personal Dating Consultancy role even more important to our members.

A woman from Los Angeles was assaulted by a fellow dating site member who had lied about his criminal record. Prompting yet more calls for online dating sites to tighten up their safety and security. But it's a tall order when there's no face to face human intervention in the process.

More and more professional singles are flooding our way every day because they know there's an extra level of safety and security in place at TopMatch. Our Personal Dating Consultants do much more than check member profiles before they join. They actually meet everyone who joins up front, in person, so it's very, very difficult for someone to tell whopping great porkies.

It's likely that the baddies will stick with online dating sites where there's a flimsy or insufficient checking and security. In much the same way as burglars will choose to break into a house without a burglar alarm rather than one that's obviously secure.

One more reason to join us now and reduce the risk of running across baddies to the absolute minimum!

Make dating special to find love faster!

2011-04-06T09:37:00.006+01:00

It's easy to find people you like the look of with TopMatch, especially with your Personal Dating Consultant's expert support. Your next step? To make your dates as memorable as possible!

Everyone likes to be treated like they're special, whether they're male or female. It's lovely when someone makes an effort on your behalf. It's such a positive thing to do. So make your dates as exciting, different and fun as you can and you'll find a lasting relationship faster. Here's a few ideas for the perfect date.

Arrange to bring tasty snacks and a bottle of wine. Meet in your local park on a sunny weekend afternoon and have a picnic, getting to know each other better in beautiful surroundings. Let romance flourish in a mellow, casual setting at a good local restaurant or quaint rural gastro pub. Do something neither of you has done before and discover exciting new things in great company. Hire a rowing boat on a river or lake and drift along gently, chatting. Visit a stately home or National trust property together. Try your hand at ice skating, bowling or bowls... Take in a show at your local theatre. See the latest blockbuster 3d release at the movies. Have a hilarious night out at your nearest comedy club and laugh your way towards a lasting, loving partnership.

If you're stuck for inspiration, that's one of the things your Personal dating Consultant is there for. That's the beauty of dating with TopMatch!

Thanks to http://www.sxc.hu/profile/abcdz2000 for the lovely photo!

Love stories for professional singles of every age

2011-03-23T09:47:00.002Z

The mechanics of online dating are one thing. But the end result of our business, as a specialist dating service for professional singles, is another thing altogether.

Our target is to create love stories for people like you. And make happiness happen.

Whether you're twenty five or fifty five, professional dating with TopMatch opens up your world. It's perfect if you've worked yourself into a place where there's no time whatsoever left over to create a happy, fulfilling personal life. Dating with us can so easily lead to the icing on the cake... long term happiness and love with someone very, very special.

Our team of Personal Dating Consultants are hand picked for their strong interpersonal skills. They're adept at helping people like you through the whole process. They can calm your nerves if needs be. Boost your confidence at a time when it might be at an all time low. Or reel you in a bit if you get far too over-excited about the whole thing! In short they act as a vital compass to guide you in your search. And make it as much fun as it can be.

It's their job to make you and the other members in your area happy by introducing you to each other, providing a highly personal hybrid dating service that uses human intervention as well as intelligent computer software to find the perfect match.

What's your love story? Are you looking for one? If so, that's what we're all about. Join the love train!

Online dating fraud? NOT at TopMatch!

2011-03-09T11:01:00.004Z

The National Fraud Authority recently revealed that vulnerable women have lost a massive total of two and a half million pounds to online dating conmen in the last six months.

According to the NFA Chief Executive, fraudsters who take advantage of online dating sites are a particularly sinister bunch. "They use clever psychological tricks to gain the confidence and affections of legitimate site users. They are attentive. When a romance fraudster has gained a person’s trust, that’s when they begin to ask for money."

You might think you're pretty switched on. That someone would have a very hard job taking you for a ride. But it's surprising how often online dating tricksters get away with it. It appears that when we're looking for love, we're less willing - or able - to see the real motivation behind other people's actions than we'd like to think.

So what's the solution? Online dating isn't all bad. Far from it. But there are different degrees of safety and security. Most online dating sites are just that - they operate exclusively online, relying heavily on people's honesty and decency to keep things real. A few take things a step further, checking profiles online in a fairly rudimentary fashion to combat fraud, tricksters, liars and time wasters. But TopMatch is the only dating service that meets every member up front, in person, face to face, in real life. So there's no way a fraudster can slip through. They don't even try.

Which is one of the biggest reasons so many single professionals come to us to find a long term partner. You might be able to pull the wool over the eyes of a computer programme. But our Personal Dating Consultants aren't anywhere near as easily fooled. If ever. So your love life is safe with us!

Look good and you'll feel good... the science bit!

2011-02-23T10:27:00.004Z

Most of us would say we already knew that when you look good, you feel good. It goes without saying. Now there's science to prove it. But interestingly, it turns out looking and feeling good has an incredibly powerful effect on how we're perceived by other people.

Facial expressions have a big impact on the way people feel about us. In a recent study at Uppsala University in Sweden, twenty five women were photographed 'face only' - with completely neutral facial expressions - on three different occasions.

wearing a dowdy, dull outfit they didn't feel good in

wearing comfy, casual clothes

wearing their favourite outfit, which made them feel fantastic

The researchers then asked a bunch of men to rate the photos for attractiveness. Oddly, the men consistently rated the photos of women who were wearing their best gear as the most attractive, even though the men couldn't actually see what the women were wearing.

The lesson for singles looking for love? There's no hiding it. If you don't feel good, you won't look anywhere near as good as you could. The difference is remarkable. So whether you feel your best in jeans or a cocktail frock, shirt 'n' tie or t-shirt, dress to feel good and the extra confidence your look gives you will shine out like an invisible beacon!

Take control of your own destiny - The happiness experiment!

2011-02-09T10:05:00.005Z

How many times have you wished for happiness? Promised yourself that as soon as x happens you'll finally be happy? When you get your new job? When you've moved house? When you've achieved your ideal weight or met your perfect partner?

If so, there's a good chance you'll spend your whole life wishing for happiness to come and find you. If this sounds like you, it's time to take control of your own destiny. Try the happiness experiment and see what happens. It's amazing stuff! Did you realise you're in control of your own happiness? How come? It's relatively simple. Instead of waiting for happiness to find you and relying on external things to provide it, grab it by the short and curlies right now.

If you're not used to it, feeling happy for no reason might seem a bit odd. But give it a go. Think about a very happy time. Remember how it felt to be that happy. Feel that lovely, warm glow in your middle. Replay the scene time and time again, each time feeling the happiness and being consciously grateful for it.

When you go to bed, daydream about feeling happy as you drift off. If you feel gloom creeping in, don't worry. Just steer yourself gently back to feeling happy again. And in the morning when you wake up, carry on in the same way.

With a bit of practice you'll feel better than you've felt for ages. Even though nothing in your life except your attitude has changed. And the better you feel, the more happy and confident you are. It's a wonderfully positive catch 22 and once you're caught up in it, it is genuinely life-affirming.

When you're confident you're more attractive. It's easier to find love. And when you're single and looking for love, every little helps. Our Personal Dating Consultants are full of useful hints and tips like this. So start your own happiness experiment and head over to TopMatch. The love of your life is waiting for you!

5 top facts about dating with TopMatch

2011-01-26T12:46:00.004Z

Online dating is online dating is online dating, right? When you've seen one, you've seen 'em all?

Thankfully, no! Here's five very good reasons why dating with TopMatch is very different.

1. You live in the real world... and so do we. As a professional you probably spend a lot of your life glued to a computer screen, car seat, factory or desk. And you know your way around the internet. But as far as relationships are concerned you prefer living in the physical world. That's why every TopMatch member has a their own personal Dating Consultant to keep things real.

2. There are just as many men as women members at TopMatch. The ratio hovers around 47% men so there's an even split. Which makes it much easier to find someone.

3. TopMatch is home to professional singles like you, which saves weeding out countless unsuitable partners like you have to on other dating sites. The biggest age band is 35s - 55s but we cater for professionals of every age, from 30-70.

4. We don't take on jokers or scammers. They simply can't get in. Because we see everyone face to face first our members are all genuinely lovely people, looking for genuine relationships.

5. We believe in true love. We've seen happen it so many times, to so many people. It's wonderful to see, which is the main reason our relationship experts love to run their local TopMatch businesses. We're on your side 100% of the way, unlike a mere machine!

Thanks to http://www.sxc.hu/profile/theswedish for the lovely image.

Love versus infatuation... do you know the difference?

2011-01-12T11:08:00.005Z

Do your relationships keep going wrong? Are you madly in love one minute - so much that you can't think straight - and completely out of love the next? Do you wonder, every single time, what went wrong when a few weeks ago you were inseparable?

If so you might be falling in lust rather than falling in love. There's a big difference and unless you have a degree of self awareness, you might find it tricky to identify which is which. Here's some tips to help you on your way:

Love is...

enjoying your partner's company, not just their physical presence. Yes, you fancy them rotten. But looks aren't the be all and end all. They're just the tip of the love iceberg

talking all night because there's so much to say and you have so much in common

accepting your partner's differences without taking them as a personal affront

loving your other half even when they're ill or having a bad hair day!

Lust is...

all about looks - there's nothing much left once the physical attraction has calmed down

not caring about your partner's personality, views or opinions... just their body!

having nothing to talk about once the glow has worn off

having absolutely nothing in common except immume systems that are different enough to guarantee lust - we instinctively tend to have children with partners who are genetically very different because opposite genes make for healthy kids

If you're having issues with lust versus love, dating with TopMatch helps you overcome them. Your personal Dating Consultant is on your side to help you make dating decisions wisely and find a lasting and happy partnership, not just yet another failed attempt based on looks and lust alone.

New year, new love... treat your heart in 2011!!

2010-12-29T12:37:00.003Z

2010 has passed in a flash. You're working yourself into the ground. Yes, you love your job. But it eats up so much of your life. Your weekends are packed full of things you have to do to keep body and soul together. The washing. Shopping. Seeing family. And if you have them, your kids. But what about your heart?

It's almost 2011. This is a funny old week, the way Christmas has fallen, and most people are off work. If you're lucky you'll have spare time to reflect. Life's fun, but it's hectic. Is 2011 going to be the same? Or are you going to give yourself a break and finally get round to finding someone lovely to share it all with?

There are literally millions and millions of single people in the UK, most of whom would love to meet the person of their dreams. But we're all too busy. Many of us are very wary of online dating sites, which is fair enough. And professional people don't have time - or often the inclination - to get out there pubbing and clubbing.

Thankfully there's no need to be negative. Quite the opposite. Put your positive hat on and try dating at TopMatch. It's full of professional singles in the same boat as you. We vet everyone in person, face to face, so you can rest assured that what you see really is what you get. And you'll have a friendly personal Dating Consultant on your side to help and support you.

Here's wishing you a happy, productive and successful year. And here's to finding love!

The TopMatch team.

Seven seconds to make a good impression!

2010-12-15T09:12:00.004Z

Apparently it takes us just seven seconds to judge a new person. Which means we've effectively made up our minds within a few heartbeats. Why? It's a survival mechanism, evolved to keep us safe from threats. But how does it affect you if you're single and looking for love? Do our primitive instincts come into the dating game?

The short answer is yes. We judge people unconsciously and there's no way to stop it. So how on earth do you get your ducks in a row and maximise your chances of making a positive first impression in just seven seconds? Luckily it's all about appearing non-threatening and friendly!

Here's a few tips to help you along the way. Next time you go on a first date, bring this lot into play and you'll be on the road to success:

take a deep breath and stand up straight so you don't look nervous - nervous means unpredictable, and unpredictable can mean dangerous

smile so you look approachable, not scary!

look friendly and open - don't cross your arms or legs, you'll look defensive

look appropriate - wear clothes that suit the occasion

don't do the air kissing thing the first time you meet. Many people find it's a bit too much, a bit too soon!

the same goes for personal space - don't loom or lunge, stay a friendly distance away

use eye contact but don't overdo it and stare. Staring is threatening

turn off your 'phone so it doesn't ring at the just the wrong moment - sudden loud noises are startling

If this sounds terribly primitive, it is. We are. We're at the mercy of our instincts. It sounds like a lot to take into account in seven seconds but as long as you look friendly, unthreatening, approachable and sane (!) you should pass the seven second test.

TopMatch Dating Consultants are well versed in this kind of thing. They're used to giving sensible advice and, if you're nervous, they'll be there to talk you down. Which is much better than arranging your first date with someone yummy via an ordinary online dating site and making a hash of it!

It's the Christmas dating countdown!

2010-12-01T10:26:00.004Z

There's something about Christmas. Snuggling up in front of roaring log fires. Toasting a bright future with friends, family and loved ones. The season of goodwill. Loads of lovely sparkly stuff.

Even if you don't celebrate Christmas, it's lovely to have a holiday in the dead of winter to recharge your batteries. But if you're single and searching for love the festive season can be a real downer. Here's our top three survival tips to help you emerge from the festive season unscathed!

One: Christmas is one of those times when love often just... happens. There's romance in the air so open your mind to it, feel confident, dress confidently, plaster a massive smile on your face and dive in. Prepare yourself for the chance you'll meet someone special. If you don't, take it on the chin. At least you've had a lovely time rather than moping about!

Two: Instead of doing the same old thing this Christmas why not rebel and do something completely different instead? If the whole thing gets you down why not bundle together a group of like minded singles, disappoint your Mums, head for the airport and hit the beach. The Canary Islands are lovely at this time of year as are the Maldives, Bahamas, southern Spain, Portugal, North Africa and Sicily. Who knows who you might meet? It's typical - unless you take control of your destiny, love happens at the strangest and most unexpected times. So give it a helping hand with a winter sunshine break and see what happens.

Three: Take control of your emotional destiny. How? Treat yourself to TopMatch membership for Christmas and take the guesswork out of dating. You'll have your own personal dating consultant to support you in your search for love as well as access to our friendly, lively community of professional fellow members. Perfect!

"Everyone lies about their age"... or do they?

2010-11-22T09:58:00.005Z

The Daily Mail slammed online dating sites last week, reporting that "Men will lie about their height, men and women will lie about their age, some people even upload photos of other people and pretend it’s them." Can we disagree with their reporter's experiences? Sadly, no. But we can guarantee it doesn't happen at TopMatch. Ever.

TopMatch takes the uncertainty out of dating. When you date online with TopMatch you only meet people who are who they say they are. We meet all our members face to face so there's no way they can lie about their age, height, income or whatever else. And because we also check the photos they upload on TopMatch, we know they're accurate too.

So if you're expecting to meet a six foot two accountant from Surrey who drives a Porsche, that's exactly who you'll meet. If you're looking forward to hooking up with a farmer from Northumberland with two kids and eight dogs, your date will be exactly that. If you're expecting your date to be a brunette who runs her own online business, that's who will be waiting for you.

Nora Leach, TopMatch co-founder and Director, explains. "We built the human factor into our business model right from the start. Yes, computer technology is clever. Our system correlates vast amounts of information, interrogates it and makes logical, programmed 'assumptions' about compatibility. But it can't replace human instinct. And, as the Daily Mail reporter says, online-only dating systems are open to abuse."

TopMatch is run by Personal Dating Consultants. They're natural people-people, warm and approachable. They're specially trained in proven matchmaking techniques. And their work is supported by a state of the art computer system. "With us, human beings are in the driving seat rather than letting the technology operate people's love lives!" says Nora. "And there's no way anyone can exaggerate or lie. Our members are who they say they are. We've met them and talked to them."