The Dating Directory | Australia Number 1 Dating And Relationship Blog

You know the challenges that come with moving in with a new person, and acclimating to each other’s quirks and habits. There might be an even bigger learning curve if this new roommate is your significant other.

The good news is, this is an exciting milestone for your relationship, and with a few tips it can be smooth and stress-free for both you and your partner.

Communication is a crucial part of any relationship, and it’s especially important when you are going through big lifestyle adjustments. When you move in with you partner for the first time, it’s important to have conversations about the expectations for your new space.

Financially, you need to talk with each other about what you can afford and how you will be paying for your rent, parking and other utilities. It’s important to be honest in order to avoid financial stress.

You’ll want to find a balance between a nice space, and somewhere that allows you to save money and have the funds to enjoy your free time and hobbies.

Make a budget with your partner before you move in so that you can compare all your options, and determine a plan that fits your current income.

You’ll also want to communicate your expectations when it comes to chores and everyday duties around the house. It might be a difficult conversation at first, but it’s important to be honest about sharing responsibilities.

During this process you should also be patient with your significant other as you get used to living in your shared space.

Keep in mind that they may not know that something is bother you, and passive aggression and letting feelings boil over is never the right way to handle a situation.

You might be surprised at how willing your partner is to do the dishes or take out the trash if only you ask.

With the excitement of moving into a new space, it’s easy to get lost down pinterest rabbit holes and mountains of catalogues. Before you get too engrossed in online shopping, take inventory of what you already have.

When you move in, try and get by with the furniture and appliances that you already own before spending money on new pieces, then see where the gaps are in your home.

Before you invest in a quality family room furniture set or a matching bedroom set that will last, you’ll want to get acclimated with your space.

After just a couple weeks in your new place, you will begin to visualize the type of furnishings that you want, making it easier to shop those catalogs, and showrooms.

You’ll know what you need and also have an idea of what you want, before rushing to make a large investment in quality furnishings.

Picking out decor is fun, but it’s something that should always be done with your partner even if you think they aren’t interested in interior design.

Always exchange ideas before committing or buying furniture and decor. This will be their home as well as yours, so it’s important that it’s a space where you both feel comfortable.

The best way to ensure your home is cozy for both of you, is to go shopping or browse the web together.

You can also tie in personal touches like family photos and artwork that reminds you of memories and places that mean something to both of you.

Living with your partner and being able to support them in a joint space is a positive step to take in any relationship, but that doesn’t mean that you will not want some time to yourself.

In your joint space, it will be important to have a space that you consider to be your personal area. This space can be as big as a room, or just a corner where you keep your desk.

It’s important to remember that it’s healthy in any relationship to need time to yourself and your partner will as well.

In these moments, give your partner some space and recharge in your area. It will make the moments you spend together more relaxed and enjoyable.

The post How to move in with your partner smoothly appeared first on The Dating Directory.

If you’ve received relationship advice in your life, chances are it went something like this: relationships are hard work. Or perhaps you heard the classic flower garden analogy where you’re told to “water” it in order for it to blossom.

But whether or not that sage advice was given with a smile, it is certainly true. No relationship can thrive without effort from both parties.

Even relationships that are completely stable and happy can always use work. After all, it’s much easier to make an effort while things are great than to try to pick up the pieces after they’re broken.

Are you curious how you can strengthen your relationship at any stage? You’re in the right place.

Keep reading to learn all about seven relationship strengthening tips for any couple!

Let’s get started.

1. Stay Away from Comparisons

Comparing any aspect of your life to others’ is a sure fire way to end up feeling bad. And this is especially true for relationships.

For example, let’s say your friend’s partner always takes them away on lavish trips and vacations. And your partner has never even mentioned going away together.

Allowing this comparison to make you feel upset will only cause pent-up hostility toward your partner, and for no reason. Just because another relationship is different to yours does not mean it’s better.

Your partner does many unique things for you that no one else experiences. Discover what those things are and focus on them.

Stop comparing your life and relationship to other people’s, and you will be much happier.

2. Work on Something Together

Finding something that you and your partner can achieve together as a team may be easier than you think.

If you have a project you’ve been thinking about diving into around the house, for example, make it a fun opportunity to work together. Whether it’s some gardening, or interior design, taking on tasks together will give you some major relationship strengthening.

3. Learn About Love Languages

Do you and your partner speak the same love language? And if you don’t, what do you do about it?

Well, firstly, make sure that you are educated on the five love languages in order to understand where your partner is coming from. And if you’re not, here’s a handy list:

• Physical touch (hugging, kissing, etc.)
• Quality time (time that you spend together)
• Acts of service (doing something helpful or kind for one another)
• Words of affirmation (verbal compliments and loving words)
• Gift giving (physical manifestations of love)

So, what does all of this mean? Well, that depends on the couple.

For example, let’s say that your partner very rarely says “I love you.” As hard as it may be to grapple with, this doesn’t necessarily mean that they don’t. Some people prefer to show their love than tell it. Therefore, their love language is through “Acts of service” rather than “Words of affirmation”.

The point is that different people express their feelings in different ways. Being aware of these different “languages,” however you define them, will help you to better understand and communicate with your partner, and even appreciate your partner more in ways you hadn’t realized before.

Talk about relationship strengthening!

4. A Date Night Can Work Relationship Strengthening Magic

After a long day (or week) at work, it can be super tempting to just curl up on the couch in your PJ’s and watch TV. But, once in a while, resist that urge and plan a date night for you and your partner.

Pick out an activity that you both enjoy. This can be a dinner date, or something more involved, like playing a sport together.

The key here is to ensure that you can spend quality time together and are able to talk. A date at the movies may not be the best call for relationship strengthening.

5. Nostalgia Can Rekindle Old Flames

If you’re looking to reignite some old flames, taking a trip down memory lane may just do the trick. And why not make a night of it?

Pour some wine, pull out some photo albums, and think back on the good times with your loved one. Reminiscing will remind you both of everything you’ve been through together (good, bad, and hilarious).

This nostalgia will not only bring back old memories but also old feelings. Spend an evening honoring your past with your partner and feel the flames of love reignite.

6. Therapy Doesn’t Mean Failure

If you and your partner decide to embark on a journey into couples’ therapy, that in no way means that you should feel like a failure.

It can be argued that any relationship, no matter how strong or weak, could benefit from therapy. Through these appointments, you will learn more about each other, how to communicate better, and how to kick dysfunctional habits to the curb.

Any couple can experience relationship strengthening by visiting a therapist regularly. The stigma that couples who enter therapy have already given up on each other is just that – a stigma.

In fact, both people in a partnership showing the willingness to visit a therapist, and therefore the willingness to change and grow together, is a great sign of progress in itself. If your partner expresses the desire to go to couples’, don’t dismiss them right away.

7. Don’t Forget Your Partner

This tip goes out to all lovebirds with kids. If you have little ones, then you know how it goes.

Before they come, everything is lovey-dovey and all about your partner. But when your life is filled with the constant wants and needs of a child or children, your partner’s needs can fade into the background.

And although it can be a difficult balancing act, don’t let this happen. Make time for your partner and don’t forget about the relationship which you have with them.

Just think – when your children are all grown up, do you want to be left with a loving partner or someone who you’ve neglected for years? Relationship strengthening will prevent the latter from happening.

Although relationships take effort, it won’t feel like effort if you’re with someone who you truly love. All you need to do is learn their love language, work to rekindle old flames, make time for each other, and stay away from comparisons.

If you follow these simple tips, you’ll experience a strong, healthy relationship for years to come.

Author bio

Dr. Carissa Coulston is a clinical psychologist who has written extensively on relationship psychology on top of her 30+ publications in significant medical journals. She is the main author of relationship articles for The Eternity Rose.

The post 7 Ways to Strengthen Your Relationship As A Couple appeared first on The Dating Directory.

June is already just around the corner and that means it’s intake time! Renee Slansky’s revolutionary online programme is now taking applications for June .

Ready for Romance is an 8 week online course that is designed to take single women who are struggling with love , to learning how to thrive and attract a committed relationship.

It’s a complete digital drip fed love education system that will teach you the following:

• Learn To Date Strategically and Successfully !
• Have The Confidence To Say NO To The Wrong Men!
• Identify The Right Man For You !
• Get Him To Pursue You !
• Say Goodbye To Time Wasters And Ghosters! 
• Build Your Self Love and Thrive As A Single Confident Woman!
• Know How To Leave A Lasting Impression
• Unlock The Secret To How Men Work 

Here is a glimpse of how Renee works and her heart behind this course:

With dozens of women who have already completed the course around the world , Renee is now taking 30 more applicants. This will be the last chance to work with Renee 1-2-1 with the course , so be quick to schedule your call.

The post Ready For Romance 8 Week Online Course Open appeared first on The Dating Directory.

As Channel 7’s go to dating and relationship commentator , Renee was asked this time to comment on the effects of being addicted to your partner.  Chatting with Sam Armytage and Natalie Barr on the couch , Renee addressed the dangers of being addicted to the person you love.

Needless to say her advice left both presenters , well quite intrigued! But see for yourself in the video here!

The post Chatting with the ladies on Sunrise Channel 7 TV appeared first on The Dating Directory.

If you aren’t ready to do speed dating and maybe feel like a traffic light party is too cheesy , then it’s time to connect with Let’s Connect. 

This fab site founded by two equally fab girls , is all about getting singles to mix and match the good ol’ way – in real life at fun events.  They hold the singles events monthly at cool bars and venues around Sydney and make sure that each one is creative , fun and enjoyable to be at.

Best part is , is that they take care of all the details for you , all you need to do is buy a ticket and turn up!  Let’s take a look at their first event :

Lawn Bowls and Canapes

26th May 1pm – 3pm

The Greens North Sydney – 50 Ridge St , North Sydney , NSW

$46.53 ( to be specific!) and you can purchase tickets here.  

So grab a few single friends and we’ll see you there!

SaveSave

The post Lawn Bowls and Canapés for Singles in Sydney appeared first on The Dating Directory.

After waking up to the same person for years, dating after a divorce may feel like a frightening task. All your friends are telling you to get back out there and date but it just feels… different. You might be thinking:

Can I trust another guy again?

It has been so long that I’ve gone on a date…

What if he’s scared away by the idea of dating someone who has been through a divorce??

Hold your horses.

Post-divorce dating is scary but do notlet your fears sabotage you from dating again. Part of you probably has not given up on the idea of love and marriage and you want to start dating again. Don’t worry, I have compiled a list of handy pointers to help you navigate the dating world after a divorce.

1. Don’t Rush Back Into Dating

This is probably the most important step in post-divorce dating.

Don’t for a bit.

Especially if you just got out of a long-term relationship. It is a bad idea to be dating so “soon”. You probably have some repressed traumas or emotional damage that you need to let heal first. You do not want to date to have someone fill a void in your life.

Imagine hearing the word “I love you” from another man other than your ex-husband so soon after a divorce.

If you do hop in a relationship right after a divorce, you might be far more invested in the relationship than you should be. You may idealizethe relationship rather than actually trying to connect and date another person. In short, it will blind you from actually finding a compatible partner and you may wind up getting hurt.

I know it varies by each person but the general consensus for when you should start dating again is when you are comfortable on your own and with your own life first–without needing anybody.

2. Slow Things Down

Let’s say you took some time off to be alone and you are ready to date again.

You go out to a nice dinner with a nice guy, and you are already obsessing over if there is enough chemistry to spend the rest of your lives together!

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Slow down.

If you go out to on a date with a guy, focus on just having fun and getting to know the other person. That is it. Don’t treat the date as an interview for a life partner, just focus on enjoying your time together.

If you go into dating with the idea that you need to find someone you want to remarry, you’re going to wind up getting hurt. Your investment in the relationship does not match the substance of it.

At the end of the date, if you enjoyed it, set up a second date and go from there.

3. Use This Good Alternative to Dating App

You might be getting excited to hop back in the dating world. You start to download all the new dating apps, like OKCupid and Plenty of Fish, and start swiping away at the candidates searching for the perfect match.

These dating apps are great for quickly seeing people all over town, however in my experience, there is a better alternative available for meeting people.

Drum roll, please…

—-Meetup.com—-

I would recommend you search up some meetup groups in your area with your hobbies, and start attending the gatherings. If you are just doing what you already love, and you meet someone who loves doing it too, chances are you will be pretty compatible.

I would avoid going to these events with the sole intention of meeting someone! Just know, in the back of your head, a side effect of doing what you already love to do, will increase the chances of you meeting a great partner.

4. Last but Not Least, Be Honest.

It is really important to be really, really honest with yourself about how you feel about the person you’re with, and why you are with them.

Just be honest on where you are at in life. Honesty is attractive. It is attractive if a person is honest and says, “You are my first date in a really long time, so I am really nervous.” If it is sincere, the other person will probably find your honesty really endearing.

A word of caution. You will need to hold off talking about your past relationship/ marriage if you have a lot of emotional vomit stored up that will spill out and scare away your date.

If this is the case, wait a bit until you are dating someone seriously for at least a month before you start talking about your past relationship.

About the Author

Brandon Leuangpaseuth is a writer from San Diego, CA that helps various law firms such as Bishop Law Offices, P.C.across the country with their public relations. You can connect with him on LinkedIn @ bleuangpaseuth 

SaveSave

The post The Ultimate Guide For Women Dating After Divorce appeared first on The Dating Directory.

If you haven’t seen the IKEA plant vs bullying social experiment , then hold the phone and click the link now. Because that is a classic example of the power of our words and the affect of what we say has on anything living.

There is an incredible amount of power in what you speak , sometimes more so than what you actually think. If you have ever experienced praise or criticism then you will know the very different feelings that both those type of words can have on us.

We sometimes dismiss the idea of affirmations as something just for the ‘hippies’ or weak willed, when in fact we are subconsciously either affirming or rejecting ourselves on a daily basis purely through our thoughts and speech. 

Being a big believer in speaking love and life into your own world , I was pretty excited when the girls form Shii Mii contact me.

You see this company gets it. The boss lady and founder Alaina , is a woman who knows both the power of the mindset and the importance of speaking to it in a way in which you want it to go.

However rather than just supplying the world with ordinary self -affirmation cards she decided to add a little luxe and customisation to it , to bring you a chic ,classy and practical cards and pouch that make speaking love and victory into your life a whole lot more memorable.

The reason I love these cards is because not only do they have incredible sayings such as :

• I deeply and completely forgive myself for my past mistakes
• I am worthy of love
• I have the power to choose how I react. I choose to react with kindness and compassion

But they also come in a buttery soft leather pouch which fits nicely in your handbag. All I’m going to say girls is that speaking love into your own life daily doesn’t have to be daggy or boring.

These make a beautiful gift and are something that are fab for presents for bridesmaids or maybe your mum or business clients.

Heck I’m not even paid to say any of the above , I actually think these are beautiful and will be gifting them to all of my clients for my premium programs

Now of course you can choose which affirmations you want :

The Love and Self Love Collection – a collection of 15 gold foil affirmation cards to foster more love in life.
The It’s Not You Collection – a collection of 15 gold foil affirmation cards to ease the pain of a broken heart after a breakup or divorce.
The Bridal Collection – a collection of 15 gold foil affirmation cards to inspire, support and empower any bride or bride-to-be in their marriage.

I managed to get you ladies an amazing 15% discount , all you need to do is use the code word : LOVE

Do yourself a favour , start investing into yourself daily , let one of Shii Mii’s affirmation sets make this moment in your life where you are going to start speaking kinder to yourself.

SaveSave

The post The Pocket Affirmation Cards For Women Who Get Shii Done! appeared first on The Dating Directory.

In recent light of the Moldovian 28 year model Xenia deli falling pregnant to her 65 year old billionaire husband , it seemed fitting to ask the question.

Can one fall in love with someone who is substantially younger and older ? Well the answer is yes.  Whether their story is based on love or not is not for us to say …cough*

A 37 year age gap is not exactly common , and when you throw a lot of money and good looks in the mix it does make one question whether or not either of them had the initial right sort of intentions. But both look happy and who’s to say it can’t all work out.

But I will say this , large age gaps can affect a relationship and the level of compatibility . So naturally I decided to turn it all in a video , just in case you wanted some insightful and practical tips:

Does The Age Gap Matter? #askRenee

The post Does the age gap matter in relationships? #askRenee appeared first on The Dating Directory.

Last month our boss lady Renee Slansky was asked to speak and empower women at the Minding Her Business event .

Hosted at the suave Cocoon lounge on the Gold Coast , Renee represented We Date and was honoured to speak to over 160 women. Her heart was to impart into all those women the value of building strong relationships in their lives both personally and professionally .

In business we can work hard or smart , well the same goes with love. Your relationships directly effect your purpose , potential and business.  Renee was able to chat about the 4 key C’s when it comes to building strong relationships in your life.

The Minding Her Business events are run by founders Katie Stevens and Danni Byrnes , two Queensland entrepreneurs , influencers and fitness goddesses who are inspiring women globally.

Check out some of the highlights below!

The post Success at Minding Her Business Event appeared first on The Dating Directory.

Whether you have kids or not, stepping out into adult land to make meet new genuine people, is not as easy as when we were in school.

As someone who has lived in different countries, does not have children (fur or human) and works from home, it is literally mission impossible to meet likeminded women I can connect with in person without coming across as crazy lady.

And let’s face it, Facebook groups just aren’t the same as being able to sit down and have a coffee with a fellow sister.

Now don’t get me wrong, I have some amazing girlfriends already in my life, but they aren’t always as accessible when I live on the other side of the world as them and let’s also be honest…sometimes we outgrow people and want to expand our social circle.

So naturally I did some “research” otherwise known as googling “how to make friends as an adult”. And up popped GirlCrew.

Now apparently, this fab site/ app has been around for a 4 years and I wished I had discovered it sooner, because it really is the answer to all female friend finding dilemmas.

GirlCrew is essentially an app/ site that allows you to create a profile and find women and groups in your area with whom you can connect with. Think meetup.com, but for women, and with a worldwide community spirit.

And the story behind how it started is something I think we can all relate to.

Elva, the Irish founder , wanted to go out dancing one night , but not with a guy. She wanted to be able to have asocial night with just a bunch of fun females who also cared to boogie.

So she hopped on Tinder and put in her profile that she was interested in women, but only because she wanted to hang out with girls and have some fun. Turns out there were so many women that felt the same!

Elva quickly realised that girls craved to build friendships, so fun things and have some spontaneity in their life , without having to date to do that. So GirlCrew was born.

It now has over 100k members worldwide and is across major cities in the US, UK and AUS.

You download the app or join the site and simply build a profile (much like a dating app) and then reach out to other events or groups listed on the site within your radius. Or you can create your own event or group and have women want to join in as well.

It’s taking the sisterhood digital and it’s a great , easy and FREE way to connect with likeminded women . Truth is we live in a world where we can create our own opportunities through technology instead of just waiting for them to happen!

So if you are in need of a new friend or two or maybe just want to expand your social circle , then give it a go because …

SaveSave

The post The perfect app that helps you make friends as an adult! appeared first on The Dating Directory.