Online dating has become more popular with many singles choosing to use the internet to find love over traditional methods, such as meeting in a bar or restaurant or through mutual friends. If you recently recovered from a bad or abusive relationship, the prospect of online dating may seem daunting or too overwhelming, especially if you are not adequately prepared. Knowing how to navigate online dating after a bad relationship can help you on your journey to finding and creating new and meaningful connections with potential partners.
Decide Whether Digital Dating Is For You
Consider whether online dating is right for you or if it will hinder your ability to move forward with relationships due to the ever-increasing presence of cyberbullying, catfishing, and ghosting. While these events may be commonplace, online dating provides you with some freedom and control over maintaining a safe environment. Before you immerse yourself in another person’s physical environment or they are in yours, you make decisions from the safety of your space and at a comfortable pace. Always practice safe online dating techniques when you begin dating prospects using digital platforms or smartphone apps. If you choose to date online, be sure to create a profile that does not reveal personally identifiable information about yourself.
Determine Boundaries
Boundaries are essential in all types of relationships and should be clearly defined in your mind. Determine and set boundaries for yourself ahead of time and before you begin chatting with prospective partners. Setting boundaries can be done while creating your dating profile or during the first conversation you have with a new potential connection. Whether you are using a desktop dating website or downloadable apps, it is always important to discuss consent while setting your boundaries before meeting officially in person. There are several consent apps designed to help provide legal options as well.
Trust Your Gut
As with any form of dating, it is crucial always to trust your gut when you are talking to a potential partner or date. If an individual is making you feel uncomfortable or is giving off bad vibes, it is highly advisable to trust your gut and to remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible. Listening to your gut is one of the most important things you can do after leaving a bad or abusive relationship to narrow your chances of finding yourself caught up in a toxic relationship.
Dating is fun, but it is also challenging. Knowing how to properly navigate the realm of online dating after a bad relationship can save you time and also protect you mentally and emotionally. When you feel confident in your online dating abilities and environments, scheduling dates and meeting new connections becomes less stressful and much more enjoyable. Whatever you do, do it at a pace that is comfortable for you.
Remember, after a bad relationship, you are not broken—you are as beautiful and strong as ever. If you need help taking your life and confidence back, check out my course, “Broken to Beautiful” today, or book a Breakthrough Session.