I turned 40 during the pandemic like so many people. Prior to the pandemic I planned to get back out into world of dating. It’s become so much harder to meet people and want to put myself out there. What do you recommend I do to make dating fun and a priority? — Nat
What We're Sippin': Aperol Spritz
This cocktail looks as fun as it tastes. Which is what dating is supposed to be. Fresh, fun, and full of surprises.
Where We're Sippin': Your friendly neighborhood bar. The idea is to "get back out there." But that doesn't mean you have to dive head-first into the deep end. Get a little practice in. And start in a place you're familiar with. Ask the bartender or waiter what they recommend and why, instead of just ordering and looking down at your phone. The moment when interactions with strangers become less out of the ordinary = the moment the world opens up.
Mother Teresa: Dear Nat - the best advice I can give is to take this step by step, if this is a process that is new for you. Motivate yourself by realizing (and believing) that the majority of the world’s singletons are in the same boat. Don’t think of dating as needing to be a priority. The real priority here is you. And if that means pushing yourself to grow and meet people you wouldn’t otherwise meet, then so be it. And with the pandemic, more and more people are also readjusting to the dating world. In other words, they are in a similar boat. You’re not going out on any limb here, for there is strength in numbers. And the numbers are in your favor.
Ginger Ále: I'd think of it as you joining a party rather than putting yourself out there on your own. (And who doesn't love a good party?) You are anything but alone here. I also think there are some simple tips and tricks to consider that make the entire process a bit more fun. After all, that’s what dating is supposed to be: fun. Grab some girlfriends, pour some wine (or beer, or coffee, or tea, whatever your “fun” beverage is) and set an achievable goal. Make a night of it while you make a killer dating profile. Spend some time online browsing local social groups that are based on your interests. Like running (if you’re into that sort of thing), learning a new language, pottery-making, cooking, or something as simple as a fun dance or workout class. This can take the pressure away from actively searching for someone to date and more on meeting people with similar interests. Readjusting to a social life after a year like this one is no easy feat, but surely not impossible. The hardest part is getting started. And once you do, you may (read: will) surprise yourself.
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