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After getting out of a divorce, the idea of jumping back into the dating scene can be pretty intimidating. Especially in the age of COVID-19, it can be difficult to get motivated to meet new people.
If you feel overwhelmed, just know that you’re far from alone. With the right strategies, you can approach this new chapter with confidence!
Check out these tips on how to restart your love life after a divorce.
Take Some Time For Your Mental and Physical Health
It’s no secret that divorces can be draining. Though you may feel like you’re in a funk, you should view this as a chance to make some positive lifestyle changes.
Perhaps, you can get into exercising or playing sports. You can also explore your creative side and take some online cooking or art classes.
Chances are that you have lingering feelings regarding the divorce. A great way to work through those feelings is to meet with a licensed therapist.
If you currently don’t have one, you should look into online platforms that can help you find a licensed therapist who is right for you.
Contemplate What You Want and Need From A Partner
Sometimes, people find themselves repeating the same patterns from their previous relationships. With any marriage, you learn a lot about yourself and what you desire.
In a journal, write down some reflections — What worked? What didn’t work? What did you learn? Through this process, you will be able to figure out the core values you’re looking for from your next partner.
Polish Your Online Dating Profiles and Social Media
Though it’s great to meet someone new in person, let’s face it: this is pretty difficult to do because of the pandemic. Make sure your online dating profiles and social media reflect who you currently are.
Take some time to answer all the bio questions and share anything interesting tidbits from your life (or funny jokes) that can help you stand out. You will also want your photos to be appealing for potential romantic prospects.
In general, do not include any photos of your ex-partner or an excessive amount of group pictures. Since people may look at your social media before going on a date with you, update your profiles with recent photos.
Remember to Relax
Don’t put too pressure on yourself. Following a divorce, it can take a while to fully feel ready to date. Regardless of circumstances, finding the perfect match is far from easy.
Ask your friends if they know anyone who is single and see what happens. Instead of fixating on “the one,” consider viewing this as one big adventure!
Stay Safe
Dating during a pandemic comes with specific hurdles, but it can totally be done. Start off with a FaceTime or Zoom date and then gradually move forward with an outdoor date. Check your city’s COVID-19 rules to see what you’re allowed to do and ask your date what they’re comfortable with.
On another note, you should stay on top of your sexual health. Before engaging in sexual activity, check in with your partner about when they last got tested for STDs/HIV, their potential other partners, and what kind of protection they’d like to use with you.
Dating after a divorce can be exciting. Though it can feel strange at first, you shouldn’t let those initial emotions weigh you down. Just be patient with yourself and others. You have taken an important step to finding happiness — good luck!
