Are you divorced or widowed or just otherwise newly single? Would you like to meet your soul mate but are just too terrified of taking the plunge back into the World of dating? Well, you will probably be surprised to learn that you are not alone: every year, millions of people start dating again after a long time of being out of the game for whatever reason. As with anything, preparation is the key to success and here we outline five crucial steps to take to ensure you have a pleasant introduction back into modern dating.

1. Lose the baggage

There is very little point in dating if you are still hung up over your previous relationship. Before you can move on with your life, you have to come to terms and deal with what has gone on previously otherwise you risk bringing negativity into any new relationships that you may form.

2. Feel good about yourself

Self esteem often takes a battering following a break-up of a previous relationship or the loss of a partner and most people emerge out of the other end not feeling too great about themselves. Low self esteem usually comes hand in hand with reduced confidence and this in turn affects how you interact with and how you are perceived by others. Heal yourself emotionally by renewing your friend circle, setting yourself new challenges and trying different things.

3. Prime yourself physically

Looking your best when setting out to meet someone new is important because it will boost your self confidence. That doesn’t mean looking like a supermodel, but if you need to lose a pound or two to make you feel more comfortable in your clothes, then so be it; the effort will be worth it in all walks of your life, not just dating.

4. Know what your goals are

Are you dating in the hope of meeting your soul mate and entering into another long term relationship with them, or do you simply just want to meet new people and have fun? Being clear about what you ultimately hope to achieve from the whole dating experience leaves you better able to plan and structure dates to fulfil your aims.

5. Get a life

You can’t just sit at home expecting a date to just present itself to you on a plate; unless you happen to be extraordinarily lucky, it just isn’t going to happen that way. Instead make an effort to go out with friends, pursue your hobbies or even take up evening classes. Not only will this help you to relax socially and broaden your horizons but you will meet more people and increase your chances of getting a date.