TIPS FOR DATING AFTER A DIVORCE

Dating may seem scary for a newly single person, especially for those who are trying to recover from a long and turbulent relationship. It may have been years since the last time you got out there, but here are some things to keep in mind that might help you get ahead.

In this article, we will share tips for dating and for helping you put your best foot forward after healing from your divorce. Let’s get started!

1. Focus on Self-Growth.

Contemplate your previous relationship. What went wrong? Would you date yourself if you were in your ex’s shoes? What could you do to improve the quality of your next relationship?

There’s no sign of weakness in owning up to shortcomings. The first step to self-improvement is to accept whatever you did wrong and commit to changing. Reflect on the things your previous partner loved and did not like about you. Focus on the things that did not work out well and make them a lesson for your personal growth so you can avoid making the same mistakes in your next relationship.

2. Prioritize Healing.

It may feel like you will never recover from this, but remember healing takes time. Reflect on what you need to get out of the pain and suffering you are experiencing. Focus on what you are passionate about, and give yourself a purpose. For you to grow a healthier mind, let go of the past that weighs so heavily on you. Accept the things for what they are now so that true healing can begin.

3. Make Sure You’re Ready to Date Again.

Just because you had a bad experience in your past relationship does not mean all your relationships are going to end that way. Accept what you learned and take it to heart to improve on the next one. Love often comes when it is least expected. If you think that you’re prepared to fall in love again, go out there with revitalized positivity.

4. Take It One Step at A Time.

There might be times when you feel like risking everything all at once, but take baby steps. Tread lightly and get to know them well; find out their true intentions. You do not want it to go like the last relationship you had. Remember your priorities, especially if you have children. They will need to adjust to your new dating life too.

5. Try Something New and Innovative.

Technology has revolutionized dating. Online dating is an exciting way to meet people from all over the world, so get flirty. Lots of people meet through online dating and later meet in real life. It is a faster and more convenient way of meeting people with the same interest. However, it has its fair shares of downfalls too--like scams and fake profiles so use your best judgment when interacting with individuals you do not know.

6. Engage in Social Hobbies.

Dating after divorce is hard and the old school way of meeting other people is through socialization-based hobbies. If you are not into dating online and want a more interactive approach to dating, this one's for you. While you are out having fun doing your hobby, it gives you a chance to meet others who share similar interests and can help you strike up a conversation with a potential partner.

7. Get to Know the Person.

Go on fun filled dates and try out different places so you see your new partner in different scenarios and get a feel for their character. Group dates are also great for gauging your new partner's character as your friends may have insights to share. Be observant and look out for red flags. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut.

8. Know What You Want.

Look for someone with whom you share humor, goals, and interests. Of course, some stuff will be different--and that’s what makes life and relationships interesting-- but it should be little things that do not affect your daily interaction. Opposites attract, but they don’t usually make for successful relationships.

9. Communicate Effectively.

As your new relationship progresses, be open and honest about the good, bad, and the ugly of your past relationship. Good communication is the key to any kind of relationship. Most any problem can be solved as long as there is open communication.

For example, if you feel your partner does not have time for you, don’t immediately accuse them of not prioritizing your relationship. Talk about what is bothering you and explain why you feel that way. After you have explained yourself, let them talk and explain, and then you can both talk calmly and come into conclusion and resolve the problem. It all goes back to self-growth and learning from the past.

10. Enjoy the Little Things that Matter.

The major things matter, but don’t forget the importance of the “little things”. Dinners on Fridays, coffee in the morning, and short thoughtful text messages in the afternoon are the ones that build up the path towards a happy ending. Enjoy these simple acts of love and when things are ready to rise to the next level, both of you will know it.

Dating after divorce is hard work but if you are willing to put yourself out there and experience the joy and hardships of love, then the world is your oyster. Open up your heart to love again, and maybe you won’t be disappointed this time. Remember, if you truly love and accept yourself despite your past, it allows other people to love you too.

Contact us today if you want to know more about getting started with the process of divorce.