The first thing a woman over 50 should know about online dating is that it is NOTHING like traditional dating. It is almost like sifting through resumes. Except you’re not trying to get a job, but a new fling, husband, wife or one good night.
Whatever it is you are looking for, there’s a good chance you will find it online. OR you will find more or less than what you bargained for. Online dating is its own demon. I don’t say demon to discourage. Sometimes demons can be fun. Just got to learn how to tame them.
Let’s find out how to wrestle with online dating.
IDENTIFY YOUR OWN PERSONAL REASONS FOR DATING AND CHOOSE THE RIGHT WEBSITE OR APP
Are you a hot momma looking for one fun night? Maybe you should try Tinder.
Are you a woman who is just looking to meet some cool new people and see where it goes? Plenty of Fish might be a good option for you.
If you are particularly nervous about online dating and having random men message you, Bumble is a good place to start. With Bumble the woman makes the first move. This can help you find someone you match up with easier and without the countless unsolicited inappropriate photos that some men like to send.
Whatever your goals and ambitions are with dating at your age, there is a site or app for you. Many of them offer a free version so you do not even have to pay for a membership.
MAKE SURE YOUR PROFILE TRULY EXHIBITS WHO YOU REALLY ARE
Many people try to pretend that they are someone they’re not online. If you are searching for something genuine in your life right now, it only makes sense to be genuine to the people you are trying to interact with. If you have kids, don’t keep it a secret. You are an awesome mom! Let it be known that you raised your children and did a damn good job doing it. Everyone responds well to honesty.
KEEP YOUR PROFILE UP TO DATE WITH NEW PICTURES AND INFORMATION.
Make sure you profile is up to date. No one wants to see a wedding photo from 1985. Show your gorgeous and authentic CURRENT self. You are beautiful at any age and any point in your life. Let them know that you are confident in who you are now. Went on vacation recently? Post some photos of you having fun and being adventurous. The last thing some one browsing on a dating app wants to see is a stick in the mud.
BE SAFE
Safety is the most important thing to consider when online dating. There are some real creeps out there. Never give out your personal information such as bank info, ID, credit card info, address, etc. Smooth talkers prey on the trusting, especially on the internet. When meeting someone for the first time on a date, do not go to their house or have them come to yours. ALWAYS meet in a public place. Restaurants are a great option, malls, public beaches, the park, or movies. If your instincts tell you something’s not right, then it probably isn’t.
And finally… Don’t get discouraged
There will be some dates where you leave feeling confused or discouraged. Don’t wear your heart on your sleeve. Accept that there are plenty of fish in the sea and keep on fishing. Not everyone can live up to expectations. Dating over 50 can be especially hard. Just keep searching and having fun! Life isn’t all about finding a partner and settling down right away. Take this time in your life to experience new things.