Change is the one constant in life. As the Buddhists remind us, it’s inevitable, and sometimes it brings with it challenges we didn’t ask for. Whether it’s navigating divorce, supporting loved ones through illness, or simply facing unexpected wobbles, these moments can test us. Yet, they also open the door to growth and transformation.
So, how do we stay steady when life shifts beneath us? And more importantly, how do we open our hearts again, especially when it comes to love and dating?
Getting Back Into Connection
I recently joined Kate Daly on The Divorce Podcast to explore this very question: how do you re-enter the world of connection after divorce? For many, the idea of dating again feels daunting, especially if you’re out of practice.
Dating apps can be helpful, but they’re just one avenue. Real magic often happens when we show up in social spaces, whether at events, community gatherings, or even casual encounters in our daily lives. Building small moments of connection, like striking up a conversation with someone new, can make the whole process feel less intimidating.
Why Flirting Matters
Flirting isn’t just about romance. It’s about playfulness, confidence, and connection. That’s why I love running workshops, both online and in person, to help people grow their flirting and connecting skills. Sometimes, all we need is a little encouragement (and the right environment) to take that first step toward openness and vulnerability.
Four Simple Flirting Tips
A flirt a day builds confidence. Start small: say hello to the barista, smile at someone in the supermarket.
Flirt with yourself first. Create rituals of self-love. Journal about joy, choose clothes that make you feel radiant, give yourself a luxurious bath, or even practice mirror affirmations.
Seek new experiences. Go to unique or interesting events. You never know who you might meet or how you might feel more alive in the process.
Find your “anchor” people. Surround yourself with friends who encourage you to get out there and cheer you on.
Life, Creativity, and Daily Rituals
Beyond dating, nurturing ourselves is essential. For me, living on the South Coast means daily swims, witnessing nature’s bloom, and cultivating a writing practice. Meditation, giving up sugar, and a little decluttering have all helped me feel more grounded.
I’ve also been revisiting some favorite relationship books and diving into more playful reading, like Anaïs Nin’s The Veiled Woman. Stories like these remind us that pleasure, curiosity, and creativity are vital parts of life.
Closing Thoughts
Dating after divorce or any life change can feel overwhelming. But remember, you don’t have to do it alone. With the right support, encouragement, and a willingness to try, you can step into a new chapter full of possibility.
So go gently, be playful, and most importantly, open your heart.
With love,
Cate
