Hey you! Yes you, the one wearing the newly single and ready to mingle badge with pride. Things, we’re afraid to say, have changed a little since you were last around. There’s acclimatising to cuffing season, DMs to slide into and excessive swiping to perfect, all now part and parcel of the modern path to romance.
Indeed, re-joining the dating scene can create a mixture of conflicting emotions; intimidation, excitement and curiosity. But if you feel like you’re out of the loop, don’t worry. We’re here to be that friend who fakes an emergency phone call to get you out of a bad date, that buddy who lends you their favourite dress, or the trusted wingwoman who knows when to slip away, with these; our 5 IDEAL tips for rejoining the dating scene.
CLEAR OUT YOUR WARDROBE
If your finest date-wear still reminds you of nights with your ex, or hails from a different era which now looks well out of place, then now is an excellent time to donate some to a charity shop, and get in some new threads.
Having a bit of a clear-out can give your confidence a boost, and can also be a great way to clear your head; a way of achieving some closure on what’s perhaps been a difficult path. Approaching the dating scene with a fresh, ‘new me’ mentality is one of the best steps you can take.
BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF
What is it you’re looking for on the dating scene? If you’re not sure you’re up for a relationship, but want the thrill of spending some quality time over a meal with a new date, then it’s best to figure that out first. Equally, if you’re keen to dive back into commitment and security, that’s fine too. Simply put, knowing your own expectations first before you head out means you won’t be left feeling confused, unclear in your intentions, and neither will your date. If you’re keen to find someone to settle down with, then it’s okay to admit that to yourself, too; just make sure you’re in the right headspace to do so.
GO ONLINE
The most popular and prolific dating apps and websites are constantly changing. Last year’s Tinder is this year’s Bumble is next week’s Hinge and forever it changes. After you’ve reached some conclusions about what it is you want, then it’s time to enjoy the fact that the internet has you covered when it comes to niche preferences. Rather than relying on fate to bring you to your dream partner, using the internet to bring them to you is a much more proactive course of action.
CHAT TO SINGLE FRIENDS
There’s nothing better than a good ol’ gossip to hear the worts’n’all version of the current dating scene. Yep, friends who are also single are perhaps the best way to find out what’s what in the world of dating in 2019. You might already be aware of most of their suggestions, but there are benefits to be found in knowing that someone else is out on the hunt too. Double date anyone?
BE COMFORTABLE WITH YOURSELF
While everyone has heard the sage words that you should find yourself before trying to find someone else, it’s good not to dismiss this simply as the hollow words of Instagram philosophy. While we’re all on a journey with ourselves to some extent, it’s always better to walk into a bar with a date and feel comfortable and confident in yourself, first and foremost.
