Allison Pescosolido and Andra Brosh are both experts in divorce recovery and starting over. They cofounded Divorce Detox, a full-service centre that helps transform the lives of individuals transitioning through divorce. Here they share some flirting techniques that will help you get back into the swing of things.
1. No pressure
The first thing to remember is that flirting is a harmless way of gauging another person's interest in conversing with you. "You are not committing to a lifelong connection or even a date. You are simply deciding in a few moments whether you may enjoy this person's company," says Pescosolido.
It's actually very simple: If you're into each other, you can continue to talk. But if you're not feeling it, you can end the conversation and move on. We're used to having to humour our partners, but flirting with new potential mates is more about scoping out the scene.
2. Simple steps
We've all heard that the best way to flirt is to make eye contact and -- rather than looking away quickly -- holding his gaze and smiling. It sounds easy, but if your dating radar is off, it can be hard to interpret if someone is interested. If he glances back and smiles at you in return, Pescosolido and Brosh suggest going for it and introducing yourself.
"Maintain eye contact for a few moments and be sure to smile," they say. Not sure what to say? "Offer a simple open-ended observation like ‘Isn't this weather wonderful?'" suggests Brosh. This is not intimidating conversation and it helps to get the interaction off on a friendly foot.
Page 1 of 2 -- Learn how to interpret body language while flirting, and if all goes right, how to take the next step in dating with advice on page 2
