Dating at any stage in your life is hard, but your 30s introduce a whole new set of problems.
The dating pool is basically a dot, you don’t have time for casual hookups, and you carry a lot more baggage than you did a decade prior. That said, dating in your 30s isn’t impossible. In fact, most people find deep, lasting love in their 30s, 40s, and even 50s.
Still nervous? Here’s a closer look at expert advice you can follow for dating in your 30s:
Know What You Want
When you turn 30, your priorities change. In your 20s, you might want a partner who drives a nice car or plays music in their free time, but 30s give you a reality check. You might want to find a partner who can provide emotional support.
Your 30s give you a greater sense of awareness of who you are and what you want in a life partner. You’ll be more selective and prioritise qualities that might appear “odd” to the younger version of you. At this stage, recognising what you don’t want is also important.
Let Go of the Past
If you’re single in your 30s, chances are you’ve had your fair share of heartbreaks. It could be ghosting, cheating, a bad breakup, or even a divorce. Instead of digging up bones, look forward and give yourself a chance to rebuild your romantic life.
Your past relationships have shaped who you are, but they don’t have to impact your present or future.
Embrace new experiences. Consider modern dating opportunities, such as singles events and speed dating events. If you’re living in Gold Coast, Australia, you can find numerous speed dating Gold Coast events. You can meet a lot of people under one roof, increasing the chances of finding a spark.
Don’t Settle
It is completely normal to feel a sense of panic once you hit 30. Your friends have either gotten married or are having kids. It feels like missing a super important train. The fear of isolation and abandonment might force you to suppress your true expectations and settle for someone incompatible.
Know this: There is no fixed timeline. And that waiting for the right person is so much better than rushing and getting stuck in a relationship that isn’t right for you.
Don’t Seek Perfection
That said, seeking perfection isn’t right either. Building a healthy relationship is about meeting the other person in the middle. Your willingness to accept a person, flaws and all, represents self-growth.
Here’s a bitter truth: The disposable dating culture has made people impatient. As a result, we dismiss people far too quickly. Give yourself time to understand and get to know the next person.
Never settle, but don’t seek perfection either.
Treat Yourself With Compassion
Negative thinking can damage your self-esteem. You might find yourself stuck in a loop of fear.
Practice positive affirmations and give yourself the same compassion you’d offer a beloved friend. Remember that you’re trying your best and that good things take time.
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