How to Get into Online Dating When Coming Out of a Long-Term Relationship

Let’s face it, in today’s age, dating is hard. While some people still meet the old-fashioned way (AKA through friends, or completely organically), most singles have turned to the dating websites to find their next potential partner.

With Tinder, Bumble, Meetville, and many others out there, the online dating world is your oyster. For anyone who has just come out of a long-term relationship, this kind of dating world can be especially daunting. If you’re someone who has recently gotten out of a relationship and are looking to dip your toes into the online dating scene, here are some couple tips that will help you not to feel completely overwhelmed.

Don’t Rush Anything

This is first and foremost when coming out of a long-term relationship. Don’t feel the need to do anything that you’re uncomfortable with. Even taking the initiative to join online dating is a big step in itself so be proud of that! If you find yourself with a couple of matches, it’s completely up to you on whether or not you even want to take the next step and communicate with them. Don’t feel any pressure to immediately have to go out on a date with them unless you feel 100% ready to do so.

Read also: 5 Secrets of Happy and Long Relationships

Keep an Open Mind

The dating world can be tough. Not every person you’re going to match with is going to be your soulmate. But it’s important that you’re open to all the possibilities that are presented to you. The phrase, “practice makes perfect” exists for a reason. Once you feel emotionally ready and available, you should try and go out on as many dates as possible. It can be hard at first to get back out there, especially if you haven’t been on a first date in a while. But you’ll find yourself only getting more comfortable as time goes on.

Wear the Proper First Date Outfit

If you haven’t been out in the dating world in a while, dressing for your first date back out there can be stressful. You might be worried about style mistakes, make sure to start with the easiest parts of your outfit. If you’re a female, make sure you wear a supportive bra that can support you for whatever activity you have planned while also wearing cute but also comfortable shoes. If you’re a male, make sure you dress properly for the occasion and look sharp. No matter what date activity you’re doing, comfort is always the most important thing. If you’re not comfortable in what you’re wearing, you’re certainly not going to be feeling or acting comfortable.

Be Positive

It’s important that no matter how your previous relationships have ended that you enter into the dating world with a clean slate, a positive attitude and a good self-esteem. It can be easy to hang on to old feelings but having a positive attitude towards yourself and your future will make a world of a difference. The best ways to keep a positive self-esteem is to stop comparing yourself to others, shut down your inner critic, and repeat daily self-affirmations.

Read also: 5 Signs to Tell If He Will Make a Great Boyfriend

Know What You Want

With your previous relationship ending for a reason, it’s important that before you get back into the dating pool, that you have a clear idea of what you’re looking for. This can be the qualities that you’re looking for in a partner, whether you want to have a serious relationship again or just play the field for a while, etc. It’s not only important for you but for any potential partners that you’re on the same page.

There is nothing bad about trying something new after a long-term relationship. It might seem scary at first but actually starting dating again is what will help you to get back to the game and reduce the pain from the previous relationship.

And if you are still looking for someone new to date, don't forget to install Meetville app on Android and iOS right now and go on a date with local singles!