The highs and lows of singledom
Given up on that whole dating game because you’ve “been there, done that”? And why on earth would you put yourself through that whole process again when life is great with friends, family, hobbies, interests, work and volunteer commitments? Look, we hear you but – and there is a “but” coming. It seems many over-60s have completely given up on the ideas and possibility of new romances. Nobody is saying you need a significant other to be happy and satisfied in life – you most certainly don’t – but for all those people who are “through with dating,” “given up” or “never going there again” we just want you to consider if any of the following reasons are holding you back and why they shouldn’t be.
Friends and family are special but you can’t be romantic with them
With disappointments or bad experiences in the past, it might seem like there’s no point looking for love when you’re surrounded by wonderful people and busy living your own life. Friends and family make life rich and rewarding no doubt, but so does a romantic relationship – and in a different way. Just think if you did find the right person you would have someone to kiss, cuddle up to on the couch and hold hands with. Looking for love is a risky endeavour but as the old saying goes, without risk there is no reward. While a life filled with family and friends is satisfying, ask yourself have you given up dating because you’re happy or it’s too hard? If it’s the former, that’s great but we suspect for some it may be the latter.
New love in your 60s doesn’t mean giving up on your lifestyle or life
When you’ve lived in this world for a few decades you’ve developed a routine and a certain way of doing things. Too many over-60s believe though that getting together with a new love will mean you have to sacrifice or compromise on their lifestyle. That’s not true at all. Remember that you set the rules for your relationship. It doesn’t have to lead to marriage if you don’t want it too. You don’t have to even live in the same house. Many dating over-60s have mentioned how in newfound relationships both have mutually decided to live in their own separate houses or to have a “weekend relationship” where you spend the weekends with your new partner and the week with friends, family, hobbies and interest.
You just might discover some new experiences, interests and people
When you’ve lived by yourself for a period of time, it might be hard to imagine a “new” life. If you’re romantically attached, surely that means you’ll have to give up your old, comfortable and happy life? While it’s undeniable that your life will change with someone new in it, focus on the new positive experiences you might be gaining instead of lamenting ones you may have lost. Being open to new potential romance partners can open you to a whole different world of experiences, interests and people that could enhance your already happy and full life.