How to Start Dating Again
After a rough break-up or divorce, it's not easy to get back in the game, so you may need some help.
Up next in Dating Survival Guide (90 videos)
Improve your love life with the dating tips in these videos.
You Will Need
- The ability to handle rejection
- Memberships in various clubs
- Free time
- An online dating service (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Determine that you're ready
Figure out if you're ready to date again. If you can picture yourself with somebody other than your ex, you might be ready to start.
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Look at pictures of and talk to friends about your ex to see what you feel. If you still hurt, you may need more time.
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Step 2
Determine if you can handle rejection
Picture yourself getting rejected, and ask yourself if you can handle it. Once you know you can, there's no reason to hold back.
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Step 3
Get involved
Join as many different clubs, groups, and organizations as you can. This will get you out there meeting people without actually going on a date.
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Try online dating. Even if you never follow through on any dates, it's an emotional step in the right direction.
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Step 4
Define your needs
Define what you want and need -- to yourself and whomever you begin seeing. It's important to be honest with people so you can avoid wasting time.
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Step 5
Persist
Be persistent. Dating invariably involves failures and awkward situations. Learn to laugh at them and chalk them up to experience.
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Don’t always blame yourself when a date goes poorly; but also be honest with yourself.
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Step 6
Allow yourself to be happy
Allow yourself to have fun and be happy. Treat dating as an experience rather than an inconvenience, and you will find somebody.
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Did you know? People who are in love show similar brain responses to their partners -- whether they’ve been in love for days or for years.
