How to know when you’re ready to begin dating again
If you’ve been widowed or divorced, knowing when you’re ready to date again can be difficult.
No matter what age you find yourself single, we never lose the need for connection and companionship, and today romantic relationships come in all shapes and sizes, making it easy to do what’s best for you.
If you’re considering getting back out there but wondering whether or not this is the right time, here’s some questions to ask yourself to help decide if you’re ready to explore the possibility of a new relationship.
Are you content on your own?
Being content on your own might seem like a counterintuitive, but when you are secure and happy in your own life this is the best time to begin dating again. If you find it hard to be on your own, feel needy or want to block out past hurts, this is probably an indication that you still need time to heal.
Are you emotionally available?
Being in a relationship means sharing your inner life with someone else – being able to open up to them honestly and give and receive love is essential. Do you find it easy to share your feelings and confide in those you trust? Or are you shutting others out and avoiding connection?
Do you feel excited about a future partner?
When you think of the possibility of meeting someone new, are you excited and energised by the idea? Do you look forward to having someone to spend time with, travel with, and share your life with? If you can look into the future and envision someone else in it this is a good indication you may be ready to get back out there.
Are you feeling pressured?
When family and friends encourage you to get back out there, how does this make you feel? Do you know they’re right and are simply waiting for the right moment, or do these comments make you feel tense, anxious and pressured? Exploring how you feel when someone suggests you get back out there can help you determine your own readiness.
Start slowly
No matter what your circumstances are, there’s no right or wrong way to begin dating again, and good advice is to start slowly while you determine what you are and aren’t comfortable with. Going online can be a wonderful way to meet new people – dating services like Silversurfers Dating are specifically designed for over 50s and feature members of our own community.
Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor
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