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Neighbor News

5 Tips for Dating in Your Thirties

Therapist and Relationship Coach, Robin Leigh Maier, tells us how to make dating fun!

When it comes to dating in your thirties, where do you even begin? When we were in our twenties, the bar scene or school was the most obvious option. But after you sign on for your first real job and have more responsibilities, the thought of going to a bar to meet Mr. or Mrs. Right might seem less interesting. Even going out with co-workers doesn’t always have the same thrill as hanging out with school mates.

The key to meeting people as you push into your thirties and beyond, it to stay connected. You have to be involved with people outside of your house. Because- I know where you won’t meet someone….sitting on your couch! While you might want to spend some time investing in online dating, the majority of your time should be spent socializing and creating friendships with others. The biggest mistake you can make is to just go home every day after work and do nothing. Being single is not a waiting period.

Here’s how you open the doors to finding love:

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1.Get Involved

Think of the activities that you love. Create a list and then find local options for you to do what you love. Love yoga? Start going to a yoga class. If you see a cute man or woman in the class, put your mat near them and make small talk. Joining a social club, running club or any club can also be a great way to grow a new network of friends and possible dates.

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2.Consistency Builds Community

Make a schedule that creates consistency. If you are a “regular” somewhere, you are more likely to find someone else that is too. Seeing someone at the same place and the same time, will make it easier for both of you to start a conversation.

3.Don’t Rush Around Town

If you rush in and rush out of somewhere, like that yoga class, you miss out on the possibility of conversation with others. Build in “lingering” time into every activity you do. If you look like you are rushing, other people that want to chat with you will think you are too busy and leave you alone. You don’t want that!

4.Limit Your Solo Computer Time

After you have spent time connecting and being involved with activities, then get online. Online dating sites can deplete your time and even lead to feelings of depression. Look at it as a supplement to your already busy social life, not the lifeline.

5.Make Eye Contact

Looking into someone’s eyes might seem so simple, but eye contact is how humans create intimacy. If you find someone interesting, let your eyes hold for a second or two longer than you might normally do. You might start to feel the electricity just from that!

Dating should be fun and will spur spontaneously if you just get out there and connect. Connection is the key to life happiness at any age!

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