So, you’re a widow and thinking about dating again? Buckle up, because the unsolicited advice is coming in hotter than a rom-com love triangle! Your nosy neighbor, well-meaning best friend, and even your hairdresser have opinions on your love life. The problem? Most of their advice is absolute garbage.
Let’s break down the 10 worst dating tips widows get, and what you should actually do instead!
1. “Just Get Back Out There!”
Ah yes, because love is like grocery shopping, and all you need to do is stroll through the dating aisle and pick out a fresh man. Spoiler alert: It’s not that simple.
What to Do Instead:
Take your time. Heal. Date when you feel ready, not when Aunt Susan says so.
2. “Find Someone Just Like Your Late Husband.”
Because clearly, men come in “Late Husband Replica Edition.” While it’s natural to compare, looking for a carbon copy is setting yourself up for disappointment.
What to Do Instead:
Look for someone who makes you happy in this chapter of your life, not someone who fits into the last one.
3. “You Should Only Date Other Widowers.”
Because dating should be a never-ending grief support group? While widowers do understand your journey, that doesn’t mean they’re your only option.
What to Do Instead:
Keep an open mind! Love has a funny way of showing up where you least expect it.
4. “Make Sure You’re 100% Over Your Husband First.”
Surprise! That day may never come. Your late spouse was a big part of your life, and dating doesn’t mean erasing them.
What to Do Instead:
Date when you’re comfortable moving forward, not when you’ve achieved mythical “closure.”
5. “Act Like You’ve Never Been Married.”
Right, because hiding a major life experience is a great foundation for a relationship. (Insert eye-roll here.)
What to Do Instead:
Be honest. The right person will respect your past and embrace your future.
6. “Avoid Talking About Your Late Husband At All Costs.”
So…pretend he never existed? Your past shaped you, and any partner worth your time will understand that.
What to Do Instead:
Find someone secure enough to appreciate that love isn’t a competition.
7. “Lower Your Standards, You’re Not 25 Anymore.”
Oh, so you should just settle? Maybe go on a date with Steve from accounting who collects toe fungus samples? Hard pass.
What to Do Instead:
Hold out for someone who actually excites you, because love is not about compromise.
8. “You Need to Move Fast, You’re Not Getting Any Younger!”
Because nothing says romance like a ticking biological clock of doom.
What to Do Instead:
Go at your own pace. Love isn’t a race, and the right person won’t be scared off by your timeline.
9. “Online Dating Is the Only Way to Meet Someone.”
Sure, if you love scrolling through selfies of men holding fish. Online dating can work, but it’s not the only path.
What to Do Instead:
Try different avenues, hobbies, travel, mutual friends. Love can pop up anywhere!
10. “Dating Is Too Hard, Just Stay Single.”
Translation: “Give up now because trying is inconvenient.” Dating is hard, but so is ordering sushi in a new city, and that doesn’t stop you from trying.
What to Do Instead:
If you want love, go for it. You’re the boss of your happiness!
Need a Confidence Boost? Try Widow’s Wingwoman
We get it, dating after loss is scary. But guess what? You don’t have to do it alone. Widow’s Wingwoman is your ultimate guide to navigating love again, packed with expert advice, real-world strategies, and a little humor (because dating is ridiculous).