Here are some questions from firstwivesworld.com bloggers. I hope my responses will be helpful!
From Megan Thomas: Can you recommend some books to read for healing a relationship?
There are a number of great books I'd recommend on this topic. My friend Lisa Steadman wrote, It's a Breakup Not a Breakdown about moving on and changing your life after a relationship. I've also heard that Rebuilding When Your Relationship Ends by Bruce Fisher is an insightful and inspiring read. Or, if you want a light-hearted advice book, I contributed to You Can Keep The Damn China: And 824 Other Great Tips on Dealing with Divorce in which hundreds of divorcees share their experiences of splitting up and moving on.
From Julie Savard: Do you believe that "living apart/together" relationships are healthy ones? Do you think this type of relationship is a good option to keep love together and that separating households can resolve some of the conflicts cohabitation brings to a marriage?
Many couples have unconventional arrangements that work for them. I know a married couple who swear by living apart, saying that the space keeps their passion alive and let's them maintain their independence and self-expression. I also know a divorced couple who both claim that this set-up distanced them so much that they started to lead very separate and disconnected lives. The bottom line is that living with another person will be both challenging and rewarding. A fulfilling relationship will look different to different people; and I truly believe that 'healthy' is defined by how much the relationship is meeting the needs of both people involved.
read more »Nervous about that first post-divorce date? Don't worry. I have a few tips that will help you put your mind at ease so you can relax! Here are three "Dos" and three "Don'ts" of post-divorce dating:
DO remember that your first date after divorce is not about looking for a new husband! Have fun. If you haven't been in the dating scene for a while, a new date is a great chance to practice your dating muscle again.
DO stay upbeat and positive rather than talking about your baggage. Everyone has baggage at a certain age — learn to unload it gradually, over time as you and your date get closer. Remember, some mystery is good at the beginning of dating!
DO remember that being divorced is nothing to be ashamed of. Without dwelling on details of your past, be honest about your divorce status if you are asked about your relationship history rather than have your date find out after the fact.
DON'T spend the entire first date comparing the person to your ex spouse. If you do this, you won't be present or show up as your best self on the date.
If you have children, DON'T introduce your date to them before or after a first date. Meet your date at a public place and let your connection grow before you involve your kids.
DON'T go on a date to get back at your ex. This is YOUR time. When you feel ready to start dating again, you are making a statement to yourself that you are ready to embrace a new and exciting chapter of your life.
Go out and have some fun!
Here are three of my favorite sites and blogs for dating advice:
Lisa has a lot of great information and articles about breaking up and moving on.
read more »The call went something like
this: "Can you remind me what a dating site is? You've told me
about it but it never mattered before. How do I do this?"
For many divorced women, Internet dating was not an option when they were in the dating pool. And, let's face it, for some, the Internet wasn't even born when they recited their vows.
It's difficult enough to navigate
the dating world when you're single and perhaps even more difficult
when you're looking to date again after a marriage.
So, if you're divorced and single again, I have five tips that will help you get on your way to a successful online dating experience.
View It As An Opportunity: Being on a dating site and revealing the fact that you have a child is an advantage you may not have in another scenario. Be honest and upfront about your status as a single mother in your dating profile.
You come as a package!
Divorced daters also have an advantage in that (I hope) they have learned something about themselves and what they're looking for in a partner. Write out all the things you have learned about yourself and what you believe you must have and can't stand in a potential mate. Examine the list so that you have clarity on your needs and dating goals moving forward.
read more »