Age is just a number, isn’t it? When you ask a couple of twenty-year-olds about dating, for them it sounds fun, it sounds normal. But after you hit a certain age, the pressure and complexity seem enormous when it comes to dating. Why so? Does it need to be that way? Not at all!
No matter what your age is, there is always someone out there who is worth your energy and time. You need to have the right approach and perspective. Yes, it could take longer to adapt to someone new in your life when you are quite set in your own independent life with accepted behaviours, thought processes, ways of living, etc.
However, dating at any age is not that bad. Why should we put a number on finding our best friend or a soul mate? Don’t let your anxiety get the best of you and don’t let it ruin the small moments for you.
Keep reading to incorporate the little things to reduce your anxiety and feel good about your dating life.
Accept Who You Are
At any age, either before or while you give space to a partner in your life, you must have the confidence to accept yourself the way you are and shed those insecurities that you have forced yourself to believe in.
Love your body the way it is, be proud of your little quirks and flaws and don’t let any external validation hamper your internal approval.
Leave the Past in the Past
Whether you were married earlier or had a bad break-up, neither of it determines your dating life today. We all have our share of traumas and we all have our share of regrets. Learn from those lessons and bring your best version in your present. The goal is to grow old with someone who doesn’t pull us down for our mistakes but rather uplifts us despite our flaws.
Dating Apps
Do not be averse to dating apps. There are some great people out there just like you. It is definitely a great way of meeting new people. However, you must be completely honest on these apps about yourself and your preferences while at the same time being cautious with the people you interact with.
Educate Yourself
Take the time out to familiarise yourself with the changes around you. Dating has not been the same as it was years ago. People change and so have expectations around knowing each other and being a part of each other’s lives. But nothing must stop you from pursuing the journey of finding someone special. Use today’s technology and the advantage of living in these times to invest in yourself and educate yourself.
Have the Courage to be Vulnerable
Consider this as an opportunity to create exactly what you need in life and to make way for meaningful relationships. Make this a chance to know yourself better, no matter how uncomfortable it gets. Always understand that despite it, it will bring you the best joy to be absolutely open and vulnerable with someone who respects and admires that in you.
Be Clear with your Communication
It serves well to establish your boundaries and needs in the beginning of your dating life. Don’t be worried about how the other person would want you to be, rather be honest and vocal about yourself so that both of you could have a refreshing beginning. This would in turn help you with your anxiety as you have nothing to hide from your partner and you can continue to be your absolute self and be respected for the same.
Look After Yourself
Investing in yourself gets you the biggest returns. Take care of your mind, be mindful of your thoughts and erase the negative self-talk. In the world of dating, you have no place for self-doubt. You are wonderful the way you are, whether dressing up well or a little grooming session, whatever it takes for you to feel good about yourself, you must allow yourself to indulge in the same.
Talk to Your Date About it
Remember, there is no shame in feeling anxious. It is human and for all you know, your date could also be feeling the same way. In fact, being upfront and speaking to your date about how you actually feel could make the both of you feel more comfortable with each other.
Conclusion
We hope that by incorporating these few tips, you are able to reduce your anxiety and feel more cheerful about what lies ahead for you in the dating world. However, let us emphasize that no amount of external validation is worth your energy. You are amazing the way you are. Be mindful of the people you let in your life by keeping the door open only for those who appreciate you for who you truly are and would not pull you down in life with unwarranted negativity.
