Online dating has tons of benefits (we would know), but it can be difficult to know where to start–especially if you’ve been off the market and are finally ready to get back on that dating horse after a divorce.
We are going to give you some guidance and tips on finding love after divorce on dating apps and how to navigate the digital dating scene!
But before you jump right into creating a dating profile, make sure you are ready to get out there again. And if you are, we can help steer you toward the right dating apps and tell you how to put your best foot forward on them!
Make Sure You Are Ready To Date Again
This is the most important thing to know after a divorce–make sure you are really ready to date again.
Before jumping into the sometimes shark (or ghost) infested waters of online dating, it’s smart to take your time and to look back at your previous relationship.
Think about your past experiences, learn the lessons that are there from them, and know what you want in a future partner.
With the benefit of these reflections and a little self-awareness, you’ll be able to navigate the online dating scene with the confidence and knowledge that you know exactly what and who you want in a partner!
Know Your Dating Goals
Having a really specific list of wants, needs, and deal-breakers can help you recognize compatible potential partners. You know what you want, right?
So really marinate on what you’re looking for in a person and establish your absolute must-haves and the definitive deal-breakers! Make a list and check it twice, just like Santa does.
This is a tough area, though; if you have too many restrictions and icks, it will whittle down the dating pool to very few potential partners. So we recommend being somewhat flexible if you can when it comes to your matches–try to stay open to new possibilities when it comes to dating a little outside of your normal “type.” Thinking outside of your usual dating box can open up more possibilities for romance.
Keeping a realistic outlook is just as important as having strict dating standards –just know that not all encounters are going to end in lasting relationships.
There are going to be both good and bad moments, but try to see every dating experience as an opportunity to learn and grow moving forward!
Choose the Right Online Dating App
With so many options for online dating, it’s super important to choose a dating app that works for you. That’s why we always tell our readers to look at user demographics, platform features, and dating app success stories as they try to determine which dating app will be right for them!
Choose a dating app that is both reputable and user-friendly, and that aligns with your long-term dating goals.
Below are some tried and trusted tips for navigating and being successful in your search for love on dating apps:
Creating a Dating Profile
Your online dating profile serves as a first impression to potential partners, so you should show off your unique personality in a real and unsuperficial way if possible!
If you want to avoid disappointment and steer way clear of misunderstandings, don’t exaggerate or misrepresent yourself in any way–that always ends badly if you end up connecting IRL.
Put your best face forward by using up-to-date appealing pictures that show who you really are—no pics of 10-year-ago you!
Be Real
Don’t hide that you are divorced/in the midst of a divorce or your dating goals in dating app DMs–talk about your current status and what you want relationship-wise with your matches.
Transparency about your situation will attract the right kind of matches who will more than likely be compassionate and understanding about your current sitch.
Take It Slow
Don’t rush into a new relationship or romance–it’s essential that you take the time getting to know someone, so communicate with them, video chat with them, and then meet them in person.
Let things play out organically—that way, if and when you eventually meet up, nothing will be forced or awkward.
Watch Out For Red Flags
Despite the excitement of online dating, it’s imperative to be on the lookout for red flags (or even beige ones).
Keep an eye out for warning signs like a story that doesn’t add up, a match asking for way too much personal information, or any weirdo behavior. Trust your gut and keep your safety at the forefront of your mind.
When it comes to romance, your own instincts could turn out to be your most reliable guide. Trust your intuition and trust your gut! If something doesn’t sit well with you or your values, listen to that little voice that is telling you something is off and move on to someone else.
Trust your gut and let it be your Yoda.
Practice Online Dating Etiquette
Get your online dating etiquette checked to avoid making any dating app no-nos or faux pas. Get back to people quickly, even if it’s only to say you aren’t interested (we know that’s hard, and it’s easier to ghost).
Be kind to other people and try to see things from their perspective; they are all there looking for a romantic connection too!
To show sincere interest in others, have thoughtful conversations, ask genuine questions, and actively listen to them when they reply—these are all important.
Keep Your Chin Up
There is always the chance of rejection or a bad first date when you use online dating apps, but don’t lose hope and keep plugging away at it–you shouldn’t let a few dating failures discourage you in your search for love!
Remember that love is out there, but it can (and will) take some effort and time on your part to find it.
Take a Break if You Need it
The pressure of online dating can be overwhelming, and if it gets to be too much, take a break and log off–if the thought of scrolling or swiping through singles doesn’t spark joy and instead feels like a chore, turn your phone down and walk away for a bit.
As the kids today say, go outside and “touch grass.”
Take some time for yourself, do the things that do bring you joy, and you can go back to online dating when you are ready with an optimistic attitude!
Be Open to New Experiences and Seek Support
A divorce can lead a person to reevaluate their entire existence–take advantage of the opportunity to broaden your horizons and expand your social circle!
You’ll need to keep an open mind and be willing to try new things that might fall outside of your comfort zone–being open to new possibilities can lead to unexpected and amazing connections with someone special.
That being said, dating again after a divorce can be challenging, so it can’t hurt to talk things through with someone you trust, such as friends, family, or a therapist.
Building a supportive network around yourself will help you remain anchored and keep a healthy outlook while navigating dating after divorce.
Communication Is Paramount
The foundation of any healthy and happy relationship is open and honest communication–make your wants, requirements, and boundaries clear.
Establishing and maintaining a connection based on mutual understanding and trust requires clear and direct communication.
Takeaways
Online dating opens up a whole new world of possibilities for people looking for love after divorce. You can increase your chances of finding a meaningful and happy relationship by doing some self-reflection and setting clear dating goals when you hop on online dating apps.
Finding love again after a divorce can be an unforgettable (and a little bit scary) adventure, and online dating can help you make the most of it–you can increase your chances of meeting someone special by using these guidelines and staying true to yourself and being hopeful about what the future holds.
Buckle up and enjoy your new romantic ride!
