When we hear the word “dating,” most of us immediately think of romance, candlelit dinners, and butterflies in our stomachs (or, if you’re like some of us, the renewed sense of anxiety that dating in midlife entails!).
But romantic dating doesn’t have to be our only option for deep connection.
What if we reimagined dating as something beyond romance? What if dating could be about finding deep, fulfilling, platonic friendships without the complications of intimacy?
For women in midlife, meaningful companionship can be just as—if not more—important than romance. As we experience shifts in our relationships, whether due to an empty nest, divorce, or simply changing priorities, the idea of non-romantic dating for friendship becomes a refreshing and exciting possibility.
Why consider platonic friendships?
As we grow older, our social circles naturally evolve. Some friendships may fade, and we may find ourselves longing for connection with people who truly get us. But making new friends as an adult isn’t always easy. That’s where the concept of non-romantic dating comes in—it’s an intentional way to seek out and cultivate meaningful platonic friendships.
Think about it: When we were younger, friendships often formed naturally through school, work, or raising kids. But in midlife, many of those built-in social structures change. Non-romantic dating allows us to put ourselves out there in a way that’s both purposeful and fulfilling.
How do I get started with non-romantic dating?
Here are a few ideas to begin dating non-romantically.
Be open to new connections: First, it’s important to adopt the mindset that new friendships can be just as enriching as romantic relationships. Be open to meeting people in new ways, whether through social groups, online platforms, or mutual connections.
Try friendship apps: We’ve all heard of dating apps, but did you know there are apps designed for platonic friendships too? Platforms like Bumble BFF and Meetup connect like-minded women looking for genuine companionship. It’s a modern, efficient way to expand your social circle.
Join local groups and activities: Finding a new hobby or joining a community group is a great way to meet potential friends organically. Whether it’s a book club, hiking group, or a local yoga class, shared interests create natural bonding opportunities.
Wondering how to get started? Here are a couple of tips:
- Make the first move. Just like in romantic dating, someone has to initiate! If you meet someone you click with, don’t be afraid to suggest a coffee date or another casual activity. The key to fostering new friendships is taking the first step.
- Communicate your intentions. When meeting new people, it’s helpful to be clear about what you’re looking for—a solid, supportive friendship rather than romance. This helps set expectations and ensures you’re on the same page.
The benefits of platonic friendship in midlife
Engaging in non-romantic dating for platonic friendship isn’t just about filling a social gap—it’s about enhancing your overall well-being. Strong friendships have been shown to reduce stress, boost happiness, and even improve physical health.
During perimenopause and menopause, having close friends who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly comforting. Whether it’s venting about hot flashes, laughing over shared midlife moments, or simply having someone to share adventures with, a strong support system is invaluable.
Redefining connection
For so long, society has placed a heavy emphasis on romantic relationships as the pinnacle of connection. But meaningful companionship comes in many forms. Prioritizing platonic friendships through non-romantic dating allows us to cultivate deep, supportive relationships that bring joy and fulfillment.
So, why not step outside the traditional dating mindset and explore new ways of finding companionship? Whether you’re seeking a new best friend, a travel buddy, or just someone to share life’s moments with, non-romantic dating could be the key to unlocking deeper, more rewarding connections.
After all, love comes in many forms—and sometimes, the most beautiful relationships are the ones that don’t involve romance at all.