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How do you suddenly start sending subliminal messages that you're open to things you weren't previously, and most importantly, how do you practically go about meeting men?
Where art thou?
One of the best ways to meet someone is via mutual friends – they can vouch for him and do excellent PR for you, but unless you have heaps of friends, these situations don't present themselves as often as we'd like. It helps to be open about your intentions, even if you might find it uncomfortable telling friends and family that you're interested in dating again.
Dating dangers
Dating can be gruelling and sometimes it's easiest to settle for the first man who appears to score well on your wish list. That is how rebound relationships happen – beware of those. Make sure your feelings are real and don't rush it or you could end up hurting someone.
Mummy dearest
If you're a mom, finding your prince will present another significant hurdle – telling your children (or not, in some cases). During the first three months of a relationship, everything is fresh and exciting. After about six months, you both tend to relax and the good behaviour wears off. This is when you get to see what you're really dealing with. You need to establish what his goals are, see if his values and beliefs are consistent with yours, and build a friendship. When things look set to get serious, sit your children down and explain it to them in an age-appropriate manner.
Where to start?
You could sit back and wait for your knight to knock on your door, or you could be proactive about finding your possible prince. It requires a little daring and could be uncomfortable at first, but the most popular options for South African singles include:
This is by far the most popular way of meeting people, and it has shaken off the negative image it once had. Thousands of successful people use it as a tool to meet potential partners.
This is rapidly gaining in popularity and involves equal numbers of women and men at a venue 'rotating' seats after a designated time (usually about seven minutes). At the end of the evening you tick off the names of the people you liked, and if there is a match, the organisers put you in touch.
While this often appears the most legitimate way of meeting people, it is costly and there are no guarantees. In some cases you are provided with a list of names to contact, which can be intimidating because it boils down to cold-calling. Some agencies offer an 'introductory' service and guarantee only to introduce you to matches. Some agencies provide a follow-up service, but others only provide you with a list of names, after which you are on your own.
Do you have your own dating tips to share? Tell us in the comment box below.
