There’s nothing simple about dealing with the loss of a loved one, especially a romantic partner. However, the process of grieving doesn’t have a set timeline. Before you know it, you may feel ready to date again, but until you approach romance with the best and most honest intentions, it may not work out for the best. It’s not going to happen in an instant, but finding a companion in the aftermath of a loss could be the most life-affirming experience you could ever receive. You just have to follow this simple guide:
1. Allow Yourself to Grieve and Recover
It’s never good to seek companionship knowing that you’re still hurting from your current loss. It becomes a matter of desperation and a selfish act to use another person as a means to provide short-term comfort. For this reason, give yourself enough time to process your emotions through healthy ways.
You can cry and pour yourself out in a journal or on a blank canvas. Allow your creativity to drown out any desire to settle for destructive habits. It’s the level of respect and care you give to yourself that gives you the confidence to reconnect with your need for romance.
2. Talk to Your Existing Social Circles
It’s easy to think that your partner’s loss leaves a gap in your life that can never be mended. Not only does this feed your loneliness, but it lets you overlook the value that your immediate companions can provide. Your beloved friends and family members will be there to guide you through the process.
For the most part, you can’t always count on yourself to find a new partner, knowing that you’re still not ready. Until then, seek the sincere companionship your loved ones can offer. Their help can keep your intentions of seeing someone new in check.
3. Keep Yourself Safe
If you’re ready to move on and find a new partner in your life, keep in mind that bars or nightclubs aren’t always the best places for romance. You may also use dating apps or, if you’re into a same sex relationship in Brazil, an online community or comunidade LGBT online, but in any case, you need to be extra careful.
There’s always the risk of finding someone who you think is good enough but may have bad intentions. Sure enough, the safest option is to find love naturally, or with the help of the people you trust the most, who can connect you with someone you can truly feel safe with.
4. Be Transparent and Empathetic
While dating a potential match, don’t assume that they’re already the perfect partner. Make the most of your first meeting to size each other up. Know the other person’s attitudes and plans, and you may openly talk about your journey from grief, but only when it’s safe to do so.
Your interactions will become fruitful the moment you start recognizing their unique personality and laying out what they need to know about you. Be open to talking about your loss, but don’t dwell for too long. Treat your interactions as a way to build a connection that’s as genuine as the one you had before.
Endnote
Getting back on your feet after losing a partner is hard, but so long as you have the right mind and heart, you may be able to find a new and genuine relationship.