Dating in the "boomer" years is not easy but it does not have to be painful. Perhaps you are coming out of a long-term marriage, or emerging from a period of time where you were consumed with raising children or caring for elderly parents. Maybe you're still responsible for children or parents and you aren't sure what the best way to get back in the game is. Finding love a second (or third!) time around is absolutely possible.
Before you start scoping out the places to actually find Mr. Wonderful, start with some tips on getting yourself into "dating shape". It's not easy to put yourself back out there, but with a positive attitude and some self-assurance, you're likely to find the love of your life. It does not happen over night.
- Take care of YOU. This is so important. So many women rush out to find companionship only to forget how important being happy with herself is. Bottom line, if you're not happy, your relationship will never flourish. Take time to enjoy the things you love, take care of yourself (hint: pedicures do wonders), find new interests. You never know who you'll find when you're out there learning new things!
- Do NOT make a finding a man your biggest goal. It will never happen if all of your focus is on meeting Mr. Right. You will burn out or turn off any potential suitor! The best way to find love is to not make it your life's work.
- Do not make a wish list or limit yourself in the "who to date" department. You might think you will only date dark haired men who are over 6'1" tall but chances are the love of your life might come in a different package. Be open to something new. You will be surprised that the guy you wouldn't take a second look at might just be perfect for you.
- Be honest and never sacrifice what is important to you. A warm body is nice, but isn't what you need in the long run. If you get into a relationship and you have to wonder if he's feeling the same, he's not. Don't commit just to have someone. Date. Learn about yourself. This time around, make it right for YOU.
Most of all, be ready. That means don't rush out and try to find a "replacement". Spend enough time getting to know yourself before you let someone else get to know you.
What's next? Where to look for the man of your dreams…and how to recognize the ones who aren't.
Cheryl A. Phillips
Cheryl is a single mom to five awesome children. She has a passion for writing, laughter and all things chocolate. She shows her non sugar-coated side on her blog, The Daily Blonde, and is a self-proclaimed Twitter addict.
Come follow her on Twitter !
Loading ...
Older dating is certainly not the same. My husband died at 50, his wish was for me to remarry. It was very weird meeting men at that age. I had my list of what was acceptable, what was not. Who I would date and who I would not. HAHA.. I was not going to date anyone who had been married before, I did not want to be compared. I very soon learned if they were not married by then they were not marriage quality and there were big reasons they were still single! Every line on my list was dissolved either with headaches or heartaches.
Now, I have remarried. I remarried a man who had broken every line on the list and had I stuck to my list never would be married to another wonderful man. I have been twice blessed in marriage, my first husband of about 30 years and now my second husband.
Never say never!
Great advice! The last thing people need is to get stuck in a rebound relationship, then feel to guilty to leave.