Okay, you’re a single, senior male and you want to jump into the dating “dance” again. There are a few tips that will help you.
Don’t rebound. Whether you’ve recently lost your partner, broken up or divorced, the worst thing you can do is jump right into the dating scene. Don’t grab the first available woman. Take some time to settle into your routine. Make sure you grieve. Know what you’re looking for in a partner. Spend some time just getting to know yourself and your likes again. Maybe you do just want a friendship. On the other hand perhaps marriage is in your future. Know what you want.
Don’t spend every waking minute looking for a woman. Honestly go about your daily schedule. Do you know how many couples met in the grocery store or at church? Sometimes when you least expect it, someone appears.
Take time to do things you enjoy. If you feel like you are in a rut and won’t meet anyone new take on some new activities that interest you. Do you like theatre? Volunteer at your community theatre. Build sets, paint, hang lights; even act. Join a book club or writing group. Join a gym or tailgate for football games. There are lots of women waiting in all of those situations. And while looking, why not stay active in the things you enjoy. You might find a partner with similar interests.
Let friends know you are interested in going out. They might have suggestions of potential women you might ask out. They might also fix you up on a blind date. Now, don’t bulk, blind dates have worked for many couples.
Consider an online service. In this day and age many people have met their partners online. There are sights available just for seniors. Look over each site carefully and decide which one best fits your needs.
Now once you meet a woman or begin going out, there are some very important pointers to keep in mind.
Don’t discuss religion, politics, illness, death, divorce or finances on the first few dates. These topics should wait until you feel comfortable. On a first date keep the conversation light and positive. Discuss travel, hobbies, favourite restaurants or food.
If you are not a smoker or drinker get that out early in the process. You probably won’t be well suited for someone who does one or both.
Don’t pressure your date for long term relationship goals. It will scare a woman off if you say early on, “I’m looking for a woman and to marry.” For one thing a woman wants to feel special, not like you would take the first woman available.
Keep an open mind. Unless there is a big red flag, ask the woman out on a second date. A good rule is, if you know this isn’t a person who you could spend a lot of time with or could potentially marry; don’t go out more than three times. So, why not start dating? Remember 80 is the new 60!