Getting Back Out There? 5 Ways to Put Your Best Foot Forward
Getting back into the dating world can be scary. Whether you haven’t dated in years or months, you might be struggling to put yourself back out there again. This article shares a few tips to help you put your best foot forward. From prioritizing your goals to clarifying your deal breakers, here’s how to re-enter the dating world without compromising about what you want.
Table of Contents
1. Make Changes
Are there things about yourself you’d like to change? Join the club. Everyone has something they want to improve on. And while growth is crucial to success, you don’t want to spend too much time worrying about what you don’t have. Keep in mind, that this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make changes. It just means you shouldn’t stop your life while trying to make changes.
For example, maybe you wish you had clearer skin. Instead of hiding away in your bedroom, start taking steps to achieve that goal. Consider switching up your skincare routine or taking prescription medication.
There are several acne treatments available and different ways to get access. Some companies, for instance, can get you started on treatment through a completely online process. They simply connect you to a healthcare provider who conducts a virtual consultation and will prescribe medication if necessary.
While there’s nothing wrong with making changes, it’s also important that you work toward accepting and loving yourself as you are. After all, how can someone love you if you don’t love yourself?
2. Double Check That You’re Ready
It’s important to make sure you’re ready to date before reentering the dating world. While dating can be fun and exciting, it can also be stressful. You want to make sure you’re ready to handle those emotions without letting them crumble your confidence.
To determine whether or not you’re ready, spend some time reflecting. Think about your previous relationships and your own personal growth. What mistakes did you make in past relationships, and what did you learn? Do you feel more confident about who you are and what you want in a relationship? If you answered “yes,” you’re probably ready.
On the other hand, let’s say you don’t feel confident about who you are and what you want in a relationship. Maybe you’re still hung up on your ex or just not ready to meet someone new. That’s okay, too. Keep in mind that you don’t need to be perfect to be successful in dating. You just want to make sure you’re in a good place to navigate the highs and lows of it.
3. Write Down What You Want
Before reentering the dating world, it’s a good idea to make a list of what you’re looking for in a partner. For instance, maybe you want someone who likes traveling. Maybe you’re looking for a partner who’s career minded and spontaneous. Consider using your experience in past relationships as a guide. Are there characteristics your ex had that you liked? Write those down.
Your list should also include characteristics you’re not looking for — aka dealbreakers. For instance, let’s say you’re passionate about starting a family. You probably shouldn’t date someone who doesn’t want kids. You want to find someone who will support you and get excited about your passions.
Creating a list of what you want in a partner helps ensure you stay true to yourself and decide what you’re looking for. With that said, people can surprise you. Try to be open-minded to dating people with different characteristics, as they might end up being the person for you. You know what they say about how opposites attract.
4. Boost Your Confidence
Television and social media make it seem like some people are perfect, but they’re not. What you see online is a highlight reel of everyone’s best moments. But the truth is, everyone has insecurities. If you’re struggling with your confidence, remember that you’re not alone, and there are things you can do to help.
One of the best ways you can boost your confidence is to talk nicely to yourself. You might be saying, “I already do that.” But do you? Think about it. How many times during the day do you judge yourself? Do you make negative comments about your body while looking in the mirror or constantly criticize yourself whenever you make a mistake? You might not realize it, but how you speak to yourself matters. Your words have the power to boost your confidence or hinder it.
Do your best to change your self-talk from negative to positive. Instead of focusing on what you don’t like about yourself, reflect on your positive qualities. Talk to yourself like you would a friend, rather than an enemy.
