Even once you are mentally and emotionally ready, you don’t need to line up five dates a week. Organize to meet prospective partners when you are ready and have the time. If they are keen they will be happy to work around your schedule if you are busy. If you are on the apps, don’t think you have to match and go on a date straight away. Get to know them and when you are comfortable, suggest a catch-up.

5. Be Clear On Your Intentions

There is no point beating around the bush. If you are dating in your 40s you most likely know what you want from a partner and what you expect from a relationship. Make sure you let your date know this. Don’t compromise on your beliefs or morals.

If you are using the apps, put that in your profile. Say you are looking for a long-term relationship. Reiterate this when on your date and see what she is after. It is better to get it all out in the open early so you don’t end up falling for each other only for the relationship to end because you want different things.

If you are just looking for fun, that’s cool too, just be open and honest. You should not be leading people on or ghosting them in your 40s. You know better than that.

6. …But Keep the First Date Light

While chatting about your wants and expectations is fine, don’t go on a deep dive into your past relationship. While there is nothing wrong with talking about why you are single and giving your date a general overview, you don’t need to tell them the nitty-gritty.

A first date is meant to be about getting to know someone; their likes, dislikes, what they do for a job, their favorite tv shows, etc. Even if they don’t seem like the type of person you want to date long-term, have fun with the evening and make the most of it.

Don’t take things too seriously either. You are both there to have fun, so make it an enjoyable experience. This especially helps if things don’t go as well as you might have hoped. You won’t feel as down in the dumps if you haven’t gone in thinking she is the one.