Finding the right partner after 40 can be a challenge. If it’s been years, perhaps even decades, since you’ve been single and dating, it’s going to take some time to adjust to the new experience of trying to find a partner.
In a recent survey conducted by Harvard, more than half of men and women over 40 said they have not been in a committed relationship within the past five years.
So how do you find a partner? Here are 10 strategies to help you look for love after 40.
Network the Old-Fashioned Way
All your friends, relatives, and neighbors were single at one point in their lives. Ask them to help you find someone who’s right for you. You can also seek out people in your social networks on sites where recommended matches are based on the preferences you fill out when you sign up. The key is to find someone who has similar interests and goals as you, so keep that in mind when building your network of friends and acquaintances.
Join a Church or Religious Group
It may sound like an unusual place to look for love, but if you’re looking for someone with similar values who shares your outlook on life, then consider joining a church or religious group. The clergy can also help refer you to other singles in your area that meet your criteria.
Attend Meetups
Meetup is a website that lists events and gatherings in your area. There are singles, social groups, interest groups, and plenty of other options to choose from. This is a great way to meet people with similar interests who may be looking for love too.
Volunteer to Help Those in Need
You’ll have the opportunity to meet people who are looking for someone just like you. Volunteering your time will give you opportunities to do things that you enjoy while giving back to your community.
Take an Adult Education Class
Adult education classes are always looking for new students. If you enjoy something like art, dance, or cooking, find an adult education class that can help you meet people with similar interests. You could also take a class that will teach you new skills, which can come in handy if you’re looking for a job or want to move up at work.
Start Volunteering Near Home
If you don’t like the idea of traveling to a different location for your volunteer work, look around your neighborhood. Join a group or start one with friends and people in the community who share the same concerns as you.
Get Involved with Local Organizations and Clubs
You’ll probably meet plenty of new people in the process. Local organizations and clubs hold meetings, seminars, and other events that you can attend to find out more about what they do and who else is involved with them. This could be a great way to make friends and maybe even find someone special.
Get Coaching Services from a Professional Matchmaker
Matchmakers help people find each other, and they can do the same for you. They will ask a series of questions to get a better understanding of who you are and what kind of person fits your criteria. Then they’ll help you connect with potential matches or introduce you to people who share similar interests. Alternatively, you can get help from a professional dating coach. They can give actionable advice, which will help you meet your ideal partner.
Promote Yourself on Dating Apps
If you have a smartphone, then dating apps are the perfect way to meet people on your own time. These apps allow you to swipe left or right based on their profile photo and your first impression of them. You’ll find singles looking for love just like you are! Promoting your dating profile is vital whether you’re on Tinder, Match, or even a sugar daddy site. With so many singles online, it’s important to get your profile in front of people who are looking for their perfect match.
Expand your Social Network
You may want to consider broadening your group of friends by participating in social activities. Join a book club, take up an activity like cooking or hiking, or go see new movies that are out. You should also sign up for websites that will help you meet people who share the same interests as you, such as dating sites.
Why is it Harder to Date after 40?
There are several reasons why it can be more difficult to meet someone special after 40. For one thing, some singles may feel as though they don’t have as much time for a relationship as they used to. Other adults might not be interested in dating out of fear of being rejected again. If you’re feeling too nervous about going on first dates or anxious about how dating works these days, then you could find yourself limiting your options and missing great opportunities to find love with the right person.
What Are the Benefits of Dating After 40?
Dating after 40 isn’t all bad! There are plenty of benefits to meeting someone new at this stage of life. You’ll know what you want from a partner, and where you’re looking to find it. Studies show that divorce rates go down for adults who marry and stay married in their 40s and 50s, so the experts say there’s never been a better time to look for love!
Conclusion
Most people assume they’ll meet their future partner naturally, but the truth is that you must go out of your way to find someone compatible with you. You can try these options or come up with your ideas to expand your current social network and bring new people into it.
The key is not to give up if things don’t progress quickly or if this is what you want in life. The more effort and time you put into finding a mate, the better your chances are at meeting someone who’s ideal for you.
