Catch of the Week: Natalia Anja

Name: Natalia Anja

Occupation: Photographer

What are your thoughts on love?

You can fall in love more than once. Every person brings out a different kind of love in you. Love is being at ease with yourself and your partner. Love enabling both you and your partner to shine.

Do you have a timeline to settle down?

I believe people get attached to following a certain timeline. But that mindset is detrimental and can cause people to settle for something that they don’t truly want. I’ve never been in a rush.  I think that societal and self-pressure can cause a person to settle.

What are your thoughts on dating in Vancouver?

I hear people complain about dating in Vancouver and the types of people they are meeting. But it comes down to where you are looking. Where do you hang out and who do you surround yourself with? I think the best places to meet people are by doing things and going to the places that are of interest to you.

What hinders people from meeting people?

People don’t talk to each other enough. Also, a lot of people are on their phone all the time and don’t look welcoming. I think if you want to meet people you have to have a mindset and energy that is approachable. Start by acknowledging the existence of other people – not just potential dates, but everyone. Walk around with a smile on your face and you never know who it will attract.

How do you think social media is affecting our relationships?

People share too much on social media. What is posted can be misconstrued and people are quick to create a story about you in their head.But what someone posts is their highlight reel and you can never really know that person’s personality or intentions.  My advice is to take what you see in social media with a grain of salt, and to be conscious of what you’re portraying for the world to see.

What are some lessons you’ve learned?

Focus on yourself more than anything.  I once put everything of my own on the backburner for a boy. I chased love when I wasn’t focusing on myself. Also, if someone doesn’t bring out the best in you they are not for you.

What message would you like to leave with other girls?

Be yourself. Never try to be what society thinks is acceptable as the “perfect girl”. We are so quirky in our own ways, and we have so much to offer in our different ways.

Do you follow your heart or head?

Both. I treat people the way I want to be treated. And if someone doesn’t treat me well and value what I’m worth, I’m smart enough to know its not for me, even if my heart has feelings for him. Sure, it will feel bad at the time, but eventually that feeling will fade and you’ll know you’ve respected your heart.