Hey there, fabulous widows! So, you’ve dipped your toe back into the dating pool, huh? Good for you! Whether you’ve found someone who’s making your heart race again or you’re just getting back out there, one thing’s for sure: love deserves a second (or third, or fourth) chance. But let’s be real, keeping a relationship alive isn’t always as easy as those rom-coms make it seem.
Lucky for you, I’ve got seven tried-and-true ways to keep your new romance not just surviving, but thriving. And yes, there will be a little humor involved because, hey, love should be fun, right? Let’s dive in!
1. Communication is Key (And No, Mind Reading Isn’t a Thing)
Ladies, if you’re expecting him to just know why you’re giving him the side-eye at dinner, it’s time to rethink things. Men are wonderful creatures, but psychic powers? Not so much. Keep those lines of communication wide open. Whether it’s about what you want for dinner or how you feel about the future, be honest and open. A little directness never hurt anyone (well, maybe his ego, but he’ll survive).
2. Laugh Often (Even If He Tells the Same Joke a Thousand Times)
Nothing keeps a relationship fresh like a good sense of humor. Life throws curveballs, and sometimes the best way to handle them is with a good ol’ belly laugh. Whether it’s finding humor in the little things or rolling your eyes (lovingly) at his dad jokes, laughter is the glue that keeps things together.
3. Maintain Your Independence (Yes, You Can Still Have Girls’ Night!)
Sure, you’re madly in love, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend every waking moment together. Keep doing those things that bring you joy, whether it’s yoga, book club, or binging your favorite reality show. A little space makes the heart grow fonder, and let’s be honest, absence also helps us avoid unnecessary “discussions” about the thermostat setting.
4. Surprise Each Other (No, Not with a New Puppy… Unless You’re Both Ready)
The little things matter! Surprise him with his favorite dessert or plan a spontaneous weekend getaway. It doesn’t have to be extravagant; even a heartfelt note can make his day. Keeping things fresh and unexpected adds excitement and shows you care. Plus, who doesn’t love a good surprise that isn’t a last-minute bill?
5. Let Go of the Past (Seriously, Stop Comparing)
We get it. Your late spouse was wonderful, and so was his. But this new relationship? It’s got its own special magic. Comparing him to your past love (or vice versa) is like comparing apples to oranges, or better yet, wine to whiskey. Both are great in their own way, so embrace the uniqueness of what you have now and create new memories together.
6. Get Comfortable with the Awkward Stuff (Yes, That Includes Talking About Money)
Okay, okay, talking about finances, health, and the whole “what does the future hold” thing isn’t exactly fun. But if you want your relationship to last, you’ve got to tackle the tough topics head-on. Just rip the band-aid off and have those real, grown-up conversations. Bonus points if you do it over a nice glass of wine.
7. Keep the Romance Alive (Because Who Says Romance is Just for the Young?)
Who says romance is dead after a certain age? Not us! Keep the spark alive with small romantic gestures, hold hands, leave cute messages, and don’t shy away from a little PDA (public displays of affection). Light those candles, put on your favorite tunes, and dance around the kitchen like you’re teenagers again. Because why not?
Final Thoughts
Look, love the second time around (or third, or fourth, no judgment here) can be an adventure, and just like any adventure, it takes a little effort. But with communication, laughter, and a touch of romance, your new relationship can be even better than you imagined.
So go out there, love boldly, and most importantly, enjoy the ride! You deserve it.
Got any tips of your own? Share them in the comments below, we’re all in this together!