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Dating/Repartnering - with Open Heart and Mind
Manage episode 474520382 series 2826302
Dating after loss creates a turbulent emotional landscape. In this candid conversation, returning guest John Polo and I explore the fears, hopes, and practical realities of seeking new connections after being widowed.
Our discussion reveals why dating feels so terrifying—from worries about becoming a caretaker again to navigating unfamiliar dating apps decades after last being single. John offers wisdom drawn from his own journey and his work coaching grieving individuals through relationship transitions: "You can dip your toe in the pool, say 'I'm not ready,' and take it back out."
For the first time publicly, I share my evolving perspective on dating seven years after losing my husband. While previously adamant about never dating again, I've begun reconsidering what companionship might look like in this chapter of life. This shift highlights an important truth about grief—our needs and readiness change over time in ways we can't always predict.
The conversation extends beyond romantic partnerships to the profound importance of human connection in all forms. John shares beautiful stories of creating friendships through simple conversations with strangers, reminding us that we're "one hello, one smile away from a new friend, a new love."
Whether you're considering dating, helping someone who is, or simply curious about life after devastating loss, this episode offers practical guidance for moving forward with both courage and self-compassion. The path forward isn't about replacing what was lost, but about honoring your journey while remaining open to life's continuing possibilities.
Contact:
www.asiliveandgrieve.com
[email protected]
Facebook: As I Live and Grieve
Instagram: @asiliveandgrieve
YouTube: asiliveandgrieve
TikTok: @asiliveandgrieve
To Reach John:
Email: [email protected]
Website: johnpolocoaching.com
Credits:
Music by Kevin MacLeod
Copyright 2020, by As I Live and Grieve
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Chapters
1. Welcome and Introduction (00:00:00)
2. Revisiting Dating: Why It's Terrifying (00:05:57)
3. Fear of Becoming a Caretaker Again (00:13:44)
4. Finding Authentic Connections Online (00:19:56)
5. Creating Conversations and Making Friends (00:26:36)
6. Comparing New Partners to Late Spouses (00:35:33)
7. Self-Work Before Dating Again (00:40:35)
8. People as Self-Care and Final Thoughts (00:46:56)
238 episodes
Manage episode 474520382 series 2826302
Dating after loss creates a turbulent emotional landscape. In this candid conversation, returning guest John Polo and I explore the fears, hopes, and practical realities of seeking new connections after being widowed.
Our discussion reveals why dating feels so terrifying—from worries about becoming a caretaker again to navigating unfamiliar dating apps decades after last being single. John offers wisdom drawn from his own journey and his work coaching grieving individuals through relationship transitions: "You can dip your toe in the pool, say 'I'm not ready,' and take it back out."
For the first time publicly, I share my evolving perspective on dating seven years after losing my husband. While previously adamant about never dating again, I've begun reconsidering what companionship might look like in this chapter of life. This shift highlights an important truth about grief—our needs and readiness change over time in ways we can't always predict.
The conversation extends beyond romantic partnerships to the profound importance of human connection in all forms. John shares beautiful stories of creating friendships through simple conversations with strangers, reminding us that we're "one hello, one smile away from a new friend, a new love."
Whether you're considering dating, helping someone who is, or simply curious about life after devastating loss, this episode offers practical guidance for moving forward with both courage and self-compassion. The path forward isn't about replacing what was lost, but about honoring your journey while remaining open to life's continuing possibilities.
Contact:
www.asiliveandgrieve.com
[email protected]
Facebook: As I Live and Grieve
Instagram: @asiliveandgrieve
YouTube: asiliveandgrieve
TikTok: @asiliveandgrieve
To Reach John:
Email: [email protected]
Website: johnpolocoaching.com
Credits:
Music by Kevin MacLeod
Copyright 2020, by As I Live and Grieve
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Chapters
1. Welcome and Introduction (00:00:00)
2. Revisiting Dating: Why It's Terrifying (00:05:57)
3. Fear of Becoming a Caretaker Again (00:13:44)
4. Finding Authentic Connections Online (00:19:56)
5. Creating Conversations and Making Friends (00:26:36)
6. Comparing New Partners to Late Spouses (00:35:33)
7. Self-Work Before Dating Again (00:40:35)
8. People as Self-Care and Final Thoughts (00:46:56)
238 episodes
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