How to Find Love a Second Time

Look for a partner who shares similar interests.

Moving on from a divorce or breakup and re-entering the dating world can be an intimidating---and often overwhelming---experience. While you don't want to find a rebound relationship simply to satisfy your loneliness, you do want to build an enriching relationship with someone you love. A self-assessment, along with a willingness to jump back into the dating scene, can result in a long-lasting and happy relationship.

Instructions

1. Evaluate what your last relationship lacked. Whether you or your former partner initiated the breakup, you can identify the issues that prevented your relationship from continuing. For example, perhaps a lack of communication or intimacy damaged your relationship with your partner. By knowing what you want in your next relationship, you can set yourself up to find love again.

2. Find personal happiness. Recovering from lost love can take time, so it is important that you grieve your past relationship before moving forward. Get yourself in a positive frame of mind, not a mournful or hateful one. Once you can move past dwelling on your lost relationship and focus on the future, you are ready to enter the dating world to find a second love.

3. Look for love in the right places. A bar or nightclub might not be the best place to meet a long-term mate. Seek out singles' groups for your age group in your area, or meet people through your church. Ask friends and family members to introduce you to potential love interests. Don't shy away from online dating, either. Many successful relationships start over the Internet. Get to know people through the web before venturing out on your first date.

4. Seek out a partner with similar interests. Shared interests are key for a long-term, loving relationship. One way to do this is by joining organizations that focus on hobbies you enjoy. If you love to swing dance, check out a local organization devoted to this activity. If you love nature, join a hiking group, and get to know the members. Although there's no guarantee that you will find love through these groups, the potential for romance can blossom when you associate with people who have similar interests.

5. Communicate effectively. Honesty and open communication are keys to any successful, loving relationship. Talk to your new partner about the things that you need from him, and don't be afraid to open up about past relationships. Sharing about past love can help you both identify what you want in your budding relationship.

Tips & Warnings

• Always practice caution when dating online. Meet your date in a public place, not at a home.

References

• Psychology Today: What is the Recipe for Finding Love Again?
• Psychology Today: Love's More Complicated the Second Time Around
• Online Dating Magazine: Online Dating Over 40