When you’re working hard all week long, going out on dates in your free time is sometimes the last thing you want to do. I get it. I do. Finding “the one” can feel like a full time job in and of itself. And who the heck wants another full time job? But that’s not to say it’s not possible. You can find a way to work dating into your busy life, especially if it’s a priority for you. And guess what? You may even enjoy it! We’re hooking you up with 5 dating tips and a whole lot of actionable advice to show you how: We typically only think of our networks in terms of how to get ahead in our careers, but they can be much more impactful than we realize to different aspects of our lives.
It’s always a good idea to be open to meeting new people in general. Attend events, Meetup groups, and tell those well connected friends of yours that you’re on the market for a relationship. You never know who they might have up their sleeve that’s just the date you’re looking for! 2. Take care of you.
It sounds cheesy, but your relationship with yourself comes first, and if you’re completely exhausted and drained from work, you’re not showing up as your best you to anything in your life, including dates (it will most definitely show in your
body language.)
Let’s face it, you need to take care of yourself before you can really open up to anyone else. That means getting back to basics, ladies. It’s always a good idea to do these things, but you better be sure you’re doing them if you’re trying to date: eat well, work out, get enough rest, and do whatever it is that rejuvenates you. And do that consistently before jumping feet first into the world of dating. It’s MUCH easier to keep up your energy and maintain your sanity then. 3. You do you.
Do you dig running? Video games? Movies? Find your next date while doing something you love. Put yourself out there and do things you enjoy. While participating in those things you love, chances are you’ll be engaged and excited which might be just what you need to attract the right person for you.
Next time your favorite musician is coming to town, don’t be afraid to go it alone. You never know who you’ll run into at the venue. And if you snag a date or not doesn’t really matter as you’re doing something you love.
4. Tech is your friend.
Online dating. I know. It’s tough. First things first, there are about a million options between websites, apps, services, etc and that can feel overwhelming. But, that variety increases the likelihood that you’ll find the right partner for you on an online date.
If you prefer to email or text, have phone calls, or to meet up right away, chances are, there is a an offering — and personality — that’s the right fit for you somewhere. Finding the site is only the first part, then there’s the profile set up (grab your friends for help!.. You’ll be prompted to answer a lot of questions) as well as scouring the options. Though it can feel like work, it’s also great opportunity. We’ve got all of these amazing people at our fingertips who want to online date. It will take some weeding out but if you find your person, it’s all worth it.
5. Be open with yourself and with them.
If you’re a strong, career-minded gal like me, you’re dedicated. You talk about work — it’s part of your personality. You may work long hours. You might even only be looking to date on weekends. You might be looking for a long-term relationship. Be open with that information early on, even if not necessarily on the first date. There have been several times where I’ve mismatched with someone career wise and it left both of us baffled. We’re all different. (unique snowflakes that we are…) Some people are very career focused, while others are not. Neither is right or wrong but it is something to discuss when dating.
--
Kelly is a human resources pro and coach who helps people find and achieve what they want career-wise and beyond. Coaching, training, recruiting – if you name it in the world of HR, she's done it in a variety of industries. Her advice has been featured on The Muse, Career Contessa, Levo, Workology, among others. Learn more by scoping her out at www.kellypoulson.com.