It’s difficult, but not impossible, to date after 40. And don’t just take our word for it. Take it from those who have experienced it firsthand. But, to illustrate that meeting your match is still possible, we asked single people in their 40s how they do it. They’re living proof that love can be found everywhere, and their counsel is a helpful reminder that all you have to do is know where to look. Check out these 40 Ways Dating Gets Easier After 40 for more information on dating in your golden years.
Volunteer.
Saddleback Leather’s CEO and creator, Dave Munson, advises meeting people who are less self-centered.
“Those people participate in activities that benefit others, such as serving at a homeless feeding program on Tuesday nights or stacking shelves at a food bank on weekends. Also, pay greater attention to people. It’s incredible how self-centered so many people are nowadays.
“And the number of questions they ask reveals how selfless they are. Most people are only interested in talking about themselves—or what they know—and are uninterested in hearing about other people’s triumphs or challenges. Don’t think less of yourself; simply think less of yourself. Then find a group of people that share your viewpoint and hang out with them. People are brought together by their experiences “Munson explains.
Try meet-up groups.
Dawn Burnett, a professional divorce counselor and health specialist, has witnessed firsthand how love may blossom after the age of 40. There are several types of meet-up groups that generate joy—and love—ranging from illustrator groups to motorcycle organizations.
“You attract like-minded people by participating in things that bring you joy. Participating in the fun increases your positive energy, and you attract someone who shares your interests and has a pleasant attitude “she explains. Check out these 40 Ways to Make New Friends After 40 if you’re just seeking for platonic friends.
Go to conferences.
“Many romances have begun as a result of meeting someone at a conference,” says Burnett. That’s right—perfectly it’s OK to combine business and pleasure on sometimes. “It’s all about putting yourself out there and showing up with an open heart and mind, while also letting go of the outcome and how things should be. Allow yourself to flow “she explains. There are numerous methods to combine work with pleasure, whether they are industry-specific events or programs that help you improve your skills in the workplace.
Be more open to meeting people out.
Lisa Concepcion, a professional love life coach, knew how to use the Law of Attraction and the Inner Bonding Method to identify possible partners—she simply didn’t realize it could happen in such an unexpected way.
“For a Sunday Funday, I agreed to meet my buddies at this wonderful outdoor harbor lounge/restaurant. It was a beautiful day. I had gone to the beach and worked out that day, so I was in terrific shape. I was summoned over by a friend who recognized me. His sitting companion extended his hand to shake mine. We both felt an instant connection as we touched hands. It was almost as though nothing existed around us. We’ve just locked the door. It was incredible, “she explains. “We’re discussing about moving in together this summer, three years later.”