Online dating is very hard. That's not to say others have had good experiences. It was not for me at all. Not sure where you live - but there are communities that have "meet up" groups - this is not just for singles but it's where people gather that have common interests. IMO - I think this would be easier to get a good look at "who" someone is instead of going to meet someone you have never been around before.

Also, in regard to one poster talking about the "expense" of dating. I would like to believe in this day and age people are more understanding about "coming out of pocket" for expensive dates. If you really like each other, it does not matter what your doing or how much it costs. At the same time I would value someone who is financially stable (whatever that may mean to the individual) in their "own" life...for me it's not about sharing incomes.

I've met great people in all income brackets - and different degrees of mental abilities.

Just be "who you are" pretending does not show the person anything. But I agree, you do not have to discuss how you make your living... although, you could talk about what you like to do - I work with children and families - and make no money at it - but love it. No one needs to know my financial status until I feel I trust them.

Good luck out there. Remember if you felt like "pretending" they may be "pretending" as well. It's not easy to really get to know "who some is".