So, you’ve survived the nightmare of loss, figured out how to live without burning your house down, and maybe even managed to laugh at a bad joke again. But now, the big question looms: Can I find love again?
Short answer? Yes.
Long answer? Absolutely, but you might be making some cringe-worthy mistakes along the way.
Let’s talk about the five biggest blunders widows make when re-entering the dating world, because, let’s face it, it’s a jungle out there. And by jungle, I mean a bizarre mix of clueless dating apps, unsolicited advice from your well-meaning-but-annoying bestie, and an army of well-groomed but emotionally unavailable men.
1. Comparing Every Man to Your Late Husband
Oh, this one is a doozy. Look, I get it, your late husband was amazing. Maybe he was the love of your life. But guess what? No one wants to go on a date just to compete with a ghost.
Fix it: Try thinking of love like books. Just because you loved one novel doesn’t mean you can’t fall in love with another. Different stories, different characters, equally fulfilling. Plus, last time I checked, Nicholas Sparks keeps churning out new tearjerkers, so why can’t you?
2. Waiting for Love to Fall Into Your Lap
You think some charming, emotionally intelligent man is just going to waltz into your life while you’re at the grocery store comparing brands of organic kale? Think again.
Fix it: Get out there! Say yes to social invites, join a (non-cringy) dating app, and stop pretending you enjoy being a hermit. Oh, and speaking of dating apps…
3. Relying on the Wrong Dating Apps
If you’re on a platform where the average user’s idea of romance is “Netflix and chill,” you’re setting yourself up for frustration.
Fix it: Use a service tailored to mature, relationship-ready singles. In fact, let me introduce you to Widow’s Second Chance, the only dating platform designed specifically for widowed individuals who are looking for genuine love without the emotional baggage of someone who’s “just seeing what’s out there.”
With Widow’s Second Chance, you don’t have to explain why you still talk about your late spouse, nor do you have to decode texts from 50-year-old “single” men who still live with their ex-wives. It’s a game-changer.
4. Ignoring Red Flags Because “It’s Been a While”
I know, I know. The first guy who tells you that you’re beautiful after years of feeling invisible suddenly looks like Ryan Gosling in your eyes. But if he only texts after 11 PM, never introduces you to his friends, and can’t commit to dinner plans, he’s not your guy.
Fix it: Remember, loneliness is not a reason to settle. If a man isn’t treating you like the queen that you are, he’s not worth your time.
5. Letting Fear Keep You From Trying
If you’re waiting to feel 100% confident before you put yourself out there, you’ll be waiting forever. And I hate to break it to you, but there’s no magical moment when you suddenly feel “ready.”
Fix it: Start small. A conversation. A coffee date. A profile on Widow’s Second Chance. You don’t have to dive in headfirst, but you do have to move if you want to see a change.
The Bottom Line?
Dating as a widow isn’t easy, but making a few small shifts can turn the whole experience from “ugh, why am I doing this?” to “Wow, I think I actually like this guy!” And if you want to skip the nonsense and meet someone who truly understands what you’ve been through, Widow’s Second Chance is where you need to be.
To create your profile now and take the first step toward love again. Because your next chapter? It’s waiting for you.
Now tell me, what’s the WORST dating advice you’ve ever received? Drop it in the comments below! Let’s laugh (or cry) together.