DATE DOCTOR’S VERDICT

OUR Dating Doctor, Alana Kirk, a single mother of three and a midlife dater herself, gives her advice . . . MIDLIFE dating can be daunting. So much depends on how you approach it. What makes a great date? For some, the answer to that will determine what is a triumph or a disaster. If you think a date is only a success if it ends in a night of passion or a promise of marriage, chances are you’ll have a lot of unsuccessful dates under your belt.

Keeping expectations low, and enthusiasm high, is the best way. Many of us often get it the other way round. Thinking your life will change over one candlelit dinner will probably lead to disappointment. Instead, see a date as a chance to enjoy some good company.

Midlife daters are often a little bruised by past experiences, or lacking in self-confidence. But try to enjoy the experience. Dating can also be a gerat opportunity to start again and leave behind any unhappy times. Be aware, though, that your small talk might be rusty and you may have forgotten how to flirt — but try your best. The rules of the dating game can feel daunting — but just get out there, meet lots of different people and learn to be yourself again.