If you’re meeting someone from an extended social circle, you probably won’t have to share the news yourself. You date will likely already know about your spouse's death. If you are dating online, you may have this information in your profile or share it early on in a message to prepare the person before a face-to-face meeting. Even after you share this information, trust your instincts to decide what else to share, such as details about your spouse’s death or other information from your previous life. In some ways, confiding could build a stronger bond between you and a new person. However, talking too much about the past can cause a date to feel left out. Chances are, it’s been quite some time since you’ve been on a first date. Show respect and consideration for your appearance by showing up properly groomed and in well-fitting clothes. Ask a close friend to come with you shopping and select a few items that can help you feel most confident on your date. You don’t have to undergo a major makeover to date, but it’s nice to look and feel your best. Working out and grooming can help you feel better. Plus, exercising and staying active lifts your mood and promotes a positive outlook. Start the date off with a smile and a positive attitude. If you are feeling at all hesitant about the dating process or uncomfortable with the person, cancel the date and give yourself more time. Both of you deserve to be with someone who is fully present and enthusiastic about dating. Even when it’s with the right person, dating can be a roller-coaster of shaky beginnings and false starts. Accept that a successful relationship may not be the outcome of your first month of dating, or even your first year. Exercise a positive outlook by going on each date with the mindset that even if you two don’t make a connection, you will have met someone new and interesting. Applaud yourself for getting back out there, and leave your expectations at the door.

Summary:
Decide when to share that you are a widow(er). Look your best. Aim to have a good time. Examine your expectations.