The divorce rate has steadily declined in recent years in the U.S., but it’s by no means pulling a disappearing act. There were just over 630,500 reported divorces in 2020.
While many people withdraw from romantic relationships for a while after a divorce, it’s almost never a lifetime decision. At some point, you will likely start dating again.
Of course, dating after divorce poses its own unique challenges. If you’re looking at finding love after divorce, keep reading for our post-divorce dating tips to help you navigate the terrain.
Take Things Slow
Once you decide that you’ll start dating again, you may feel a sense of urgency to get back out there and into a relationship. Don’t rush it.
This is particularly important when dating after divorce with kids. Unless your kids are adults and out of the house, your dating life will affect your kids.
Beyond that, it’s important that you don’t rush into a relationship where the same kinds of things will break down.
Rebounding Happens
It’s not a common or even particularly popular discussion topic, but people do have rebound relationships after a divorce. You may find yourself on either side of the equation, as the rebound-er or the rebound-ee.
Don’t let that sour you on the idea of finding love after divorce. A lot of people don’t even realize that they’re in a rebound relationship that isn’t going to last until after they’re in the relationship.
Once you do know it’s a rebound relationship, you should break things off, so neither person wastes any more time.
Reassess Your Values
One of the hallmarks of a good relationship is that both people share some core values. No, you don’t need a partner who syncs up on every single thing. You can love Italian food, and they can love French cuisine, and the relationship will survive.
You should, however, see eye-to-eye on the really important stuff. That means you need a clear sense of what your values are now, rather than what they were 10, 15, or 20 years ago when you chose your last partner. Take the time to figure out what matters to you.
Embrace Technology
Dating apps often get a bad rap, yet they’re a tool that can help you find your love. Getting on the app can serve as an important bridging step between not dating and dating.
Plus, they can help you get outside of your immediate circle of friends and acquaintances when seeking a romantic partner. For example, it’s not often for people to find new things or even kinks, like using toys you can find from chastitybelt.com.au with your new partner.
Dating After Divorce and You
Dating after divorce often becomes a more complicated matter than most people would prefer. You must account for things that weren’t in play when you were younger, such as kids.
Making post-divorce dating work out also means accepting that you might end up in a rebound relationship along the way. Don’t let it get you down if you do.
You should make a point of reassessing your values and pinning down what matters to you now. Also, let technology like dating apps work for you.
Looking for more relationship tips? Check out our Lifestyle section for more posts.
