Sometimes, if you go for long enough without dating, beginning the process again can seem overwhelming. Trying to find people you like, going on dates, facing rejection, doing it all again if it doesn’t work out, and whatever else in between can be daunting to even think of.
However, even though beginning to date again after a long absence from it can be difficult, it can also be absolutely worth it. Finding a great partner can be a truly wonderful thing, even if it takes a little bit of effort.
How to start dating again – 9 steps to get your groove back
So, what can be done to help get you back into the dating world after being single for so long?
#1 Make good use of technology. The world of dating is constantly changing, and this is largely because of technology. With apps like Tinder and Zoosk, it is now easier than ever to browse potential dating candidates.
It is also easier than ever before to put yourself out there to be seen by potential dating partners. The fact that the process of dating has become a lot more efficient due to technology should help to bolster some of your enthusiasm about giving it another shot.
#2 Get your friends to fix you up. Getting your friends to fix you up can take away a lot of the stress of trying to find someone for yourself. Most likely your friends know you extremely well, so there is a good chance that they could choose a compatible partner for you.
#3 Just go to a bar and see what happens. Sometimes, just the mere act of being in a social environment can help to start the dating process. Here is a scenario: You go to the bar with your friends, you have some drinks, and then oh look, the group of guys across the way has come over to talk to you. Now you are getting a lot of attention.
#4 Go to a speed dating session. Oftentimes local bars, or other businesses, will offer speed dating. This is just another great way to meet a bunch of people in a short amount of time to see if you click with anyone.
Speed dating is a great invention. You can test the waters in a safe environment where everyone is out there to do the same thing. So you are not going to be judged, and your nerves may even be much quieter, because so many people are trying to accomplish the same goal as you are.
#5 Be more social in general. You never know who you will meet while you are being social. Going to parties, and going out with your friends is a great way to see and be seen. The more people you meet, the more likely you are to find people who interest you passionately.
#6 Go on double dates. The nice thing about double dates is that it doesn’t put all of the conversational pressure on you and your date. Perhaps you can go with some of your couple friends whom you like a lot. They may be able to set you up with one of their friends, and you can all go out as a double date.
If you do this, your friends can also help you decide whether or not the person is a good fit for you. A little extra feedback may be helpful.
#7 Watch passionate comedies. Passionate comedies can be great inspiration to get you back in the dating game. The reason is because they so often have happy endings. Sure the main character may fall in love, then face some challenge which threatens the love, but usually it always works out.
#8 Get advice from your couple friends. If you have some friends who have been in a happy relationship for a long time, you can get some advice from them. This advice may be extremely useful when it comes to trying to find a solid partner. In addition to being practical, it can also be inspiring.
You will probably be more excited about getting back into dating if you know that you have picked up some useful insights from those who are already doing it successfully.
#9 Be opportunistic. There are times when a complete stranger may catch your eye at the grocery store or while crossing the street or while you’re out for your morning jog. If you are feeling a little bold, you can make the most of these opportunities by trying to strike up a conversation with these people.
Who knows, taking the time to do this could lead to something great. If the conversation goes well, you could get their number, and then the sky is the limit. Sometimes, you have to take risks in order to get what you want.
Getting back into dating can be a little bit intimidating at first. After all, the world of dating involves a lot of uncertainty and hard emotional work. If you meet someone you like, but then it doesn’t work out, it can be difficult to start all over again.
