We’ve all heard the statistics: 50% of all marriages fail. So why are we so surprised when it happens to us? 1 in 4 of all WhatsYourPrice members are divorced or separated. But is dating after divorce really much different than dating for the never-betrothed? Here are a few things you might want to remember before you jump back into the dating scene.

Don’t Air Your Dirty Laundry

What you say (or don’t say) about your ex can really affect your chances with someone. Even if she was a nagging witch or he you caught him with his assistant, leave the dirty details at the door. Your date doesn’t need to know what went wrong, at least not on the first date. Be honest with out spilling everything and making yourself look like a gossiping, self-deprecating fool.

Don’t Be Desperate

Just because it’s been awhile– doesn’t mean you should jump back on the horse with just anyone. The first person you meet is most likely not going to be the next love of your life, so take your time.

Be Honest

They say it takes half the length of your relationship to get over someone, which makes it more important to take your time before getting into another relationship. Being divorced doesn’t have the stigma it used to have for a single women, and dating may come easy to you. But be honest to yourself and your date about where you are at emotionally.

Don’t Go Through The Motions

So what if you haven’t dated since you were 22? That doesn’t mean you should let them take control of the date while you sit back and awkwardly answer questions as if you are being interviewed. Be engaged, take initiative and participate in the conversation. Give yourself a chance to make a connection and don’t make your date do all the work.

How to End the Date

It’s a first date so set your personal standards and rules before you leave. No matter how well the date goes, remember this is your first new kiss, first anything, since your husband or wife. You’re going to be nervous no matter what, so better to leave the …. for date number two.

Dating after divorce isn’t really as daunting as everyone thinks. If you are getting divorced, you have probably at least figured out what you don’t want in a relationship, and have a better handle on what you need. Which means you are already way ahead of the game.

What are your tips for dating after divorce?

Do you think it’s harder to date after your divorce?