How to Date in Your 40's

One thing is for sure: dating can make you feel crazy. No matter the decade or what is going on in the world, the dating game is always changing.

As we age, dating may appear scarier. Whether we are re-entering the dating world after a divorce or simply ready to find someone to share our lives with, dating can be hard. You may be thinking:

• I’m too old

• I shouldn’t be single

• I don’t know how to date anymore

• What if it doesn’t work?
  
  Here are the top tips to teach you how to date in your 40s:

Do Not Be Embarrassed

You may feel a bit of embarrassment as you open yourself to dating again. Being single and in your 40s is nothing to be ashamed about.

Social judgments do not define who you are nor does it need to affect your choices. This is your specific dating path. Hold your head high as you get to enjoy going on dates and actually knowing yourself at this age!

Hold Off on Introducing Your Kids

Your kids may be old enough to understand you are ready for love again. However, hold off on the introduction game—for now.

This is your time to focus on reigniting your love life. Adding your children into the mix too quickly may be harmful to them—and your potential new relationship. Take time to learn the person and ensure they may be around for the long run.

Be Candid about What You Want

Luckily, most people know themselves by their 40s. Be upfront and honest with exactly what you are looking for in a dating mate. 

Your desires, expectations, likes, and dislikes should be out on the table. Decide your dating goals beforehand and be sure to be clear when expressing what it is you want.

Dating Apps are for YOU too

Don’t fall victim to believing that dating apps are for daters in their 20s. This simply is not true. In the new digital era, dating apps are a great way to meet new people. 

Getting a beforehand idea of a potential date can eliminate wasting time. You are in your 40s now and don’t need to go on a slew of mediocre dates any longer. What you are looking for may be right at your fingertips!

Don’t Make Everything About You

In your 40s, you no doubt have incredible stories to share—and you have plenty of time to do it. Being a good listener is just as—if not more important—than being a good speaker.

Zoosk reveals that at this stage, you should focus on being a great conversationalist. Communicating is key to healthy, successful long-term relationships. The conversation is a two-way street!

Don’t Prejudge

It can be easy to jump to conclusions and judgments. We have lived a great amount of life and know exactly what we want—but that does not always allow us to play fair in the dating world.

Don’t prejudge! Get to know your date before making a final judgment on their first impression. They may be going through a different chapter of life that you are unaware of. Give them a chance before convincing yourself they are not ‘the one’.

Make the First Move!
Gone are the days when the man has to make the first move. In your 40s, it’s time you make the first move as an independent woman! 

You have been through enough life to develop self-confidence and self-awareness that may be more difficult than in your 20s. If you want the kiss—hell, just go for it.

Bottom Line

Dating is inherently scary—but it doesn’t have to be in your 40s. You have dated before and are most self-assured than you were in other years in your life.

Take your time, know what you want, and give someone a chance. You know exactly what you want and are confident enough to go get it now. Break the stigma of dating in your 40s as it may be even more fun and successful than in your 20s!

Happy dating!