Over 40 and Dating again?

By the time I turned 40 and was single - dating seemed like speaking a foreign language. Add to this confusion, divorce and children; it felt like dating had taken a turn for the worse.

I'd been set up by an old flame - he was willing to pass on his second hand goods. Apparently I came with references ... cringe!

Unwilling to waste time in the juggling of single parenthood, careers and friends, dating took to being more of an interview than anything else. If the guy could survive that, there was an outside chance he'd survive the life ahead. After all, I wasn't into casual dating - I already had enough friends! I was after the special someone that I could build my new life alongside...

Figured I had nothing to lose so best I ask all the big questions. You know, marriage, babies, living overseas, family, and so on. Surprisingly he stuck it out and our first date cleared the five hour mark - impressive! He was well worth a second date and this time it would be a ‘date', not an interview. He arranged, picked me up, and paid. I felt special and his actions spoke louder than any words.

It was the last first date I've ever been on.

So guys, what to do when you meet a woman on a mission? Two choices: either run a mile or hold on for the ride.

It's not that she wants to be in charge or the instigator going forward, it's just that she knows you need to be worth the sacrifices she will have to make - friends, family and career.

Woman these days are told that they can have it all ... It's just that it means we have to become very efficient - and sometimes that can appear a tad too intense for dating. Trust me though, beneath that very organized exterior is a woman who wants to be taken out, cherished and adored. It's worth finishing the drink and answering all the questions, because she won't run off when the rubber hits the road. She's grown up - and she's waiting to meet you - a partner not a 20 year old in a grown-up's body.

Be masculine while being tender about her thoughts and opinions. Be sure of who you are, yet not rigid so to close off to prospects of change. Be humorous without belittling or you'll never see into her quiet space for fear of humiliation. Show manners - they do count - and most of all, treat her in a way that lets her know she's special.

By the time you're 40, you're not asking for the fairy-tale; you know they don't happen too often. Instead you're asking for what you know you deserve - a genuine guy who has some moral fibre, is grown-up and adds to your world, not your workload.

If you're a man looking for a woman like that - there are plenty around but you won't find them at the bars or pubs!

So where do you find a quality first date? A partner for life? Your soulmate? Your perfect match?

A very clever Introduction Agency called DateSmart is a good place to turn to. They have smart matching criteria and strong personal service that really gets you the results ... meaning you'll find your Special Someone. Registration is FREE, quick and easy ... and you'll even get your first introduction FREE!

Check them out at www.DateSmart.co.nz - Sophisticated and Meaningful Introductions