Summary

The article discusses the challenges and potential strategies for meeting men in real life after a divorce, emphasizing both traditional and unconventional venues and behaviors that might facilitate romantic connections.

Abstract

The author reflects on the experience of dating post-divorce, initially hoping for an organic meeting with a potential partner but eventually acknowledging the improbability of such occurrences. The article explores various locations and activities where one might meet a man in real life, ranging from coffee shops and bars to more niche settings like hardware stores and sporting events. It also touches on the importance of body language and social cues, such as smiling and making eye contact, to attract potential partners. The author humorously coins the term "flip-flirt" to describe the act of using hair flips as a flirting technique, which she personally dismisses. Despite the plethora of advice on meeting men in everyday situations, the author contemplates the efficiency of online dating as a more straightforward alternative.

Opinions

The author initially believed in the possibility of meeting a partner organically but later considered this view to be overly optimistic, akin to being a "divorce Pollyanna."
There is a skepticism about the likelihood of meeting a man in common places like the street or a coffee shop, despite the theoretical possibility.
The article suggests that meeting men through friends is less likely when most of one's friends are in stable relationships, implying that social circles may not be conducive to dating after divorce.
The author views the advice on how to attract a man with skepticism, particularly regarding the effectiveness of traditional flirting techniques like hair flips and wearing certain clothing.
The article implies that while there are many suggested venues and methods for meeting men, there is no guaranteed best way, and each individual may have to explore multiple avenues.
Online dating is considered as a potentially easier alternative to the uncertainties of meeting someone in real life, though the author plans to experiment with both methods.

What’s the Best Way to Meet a Guy in Real Life?

After divorce, I thought I would meet a man organically

I’ve been in no hurry to date after my divorce. I wasn’t wholeheartedly attempting to avoid it either. At least not in the past year.

I did turn down a few dates right after my divorce.

And I avoided a few situations because I wasn’t ready.

But in the back of my mind, I thought it might happen organically…one day.

As I say that, I realize I sound like a divorce Pollyanna. I’m not sure that’s realistic after a divorce or after a certain age. Meeting a man on the street or in a coffee shop. Is it possible? Yes. Is it probable? Probably not.

Although, one guy did stop me on the street. It was kinda like a movie. A bit unexpected. But I wasn’t ready and I really didn’t want to give a stranger my number.