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Getting The Hang of the “New Normal” – One Date at a Time
The rulebook for living post‑pandemic keeps flipping, almost like an up‑to‑date TikTok feed. Phase 2 of the reopening has opened some inns, parks, and cafés, but the memo is clear: keep your outdoor adventures moderate, and, most importantly, don’t let the world freeze you into a social chill‑mode.
Swipe Right, But Walk Right: The First‑Date Rumble
After a long stretch of Zoom chats in pajamas and ‘welcome to my living room’ backdrops, the idea of meeting a person in person again can feel like stepping onto a rollercoaster you’ve never ridden before.
- Even the simplest task—choosing an outfit—can feel like gearing up for a nerve‑wrestling competition.
- It’s the old “first‑date jitters” remix: eyeliner worries, jeans woes, and the vague fear that this look might be a 90‑s granny version of your “before” selfie.
- And nobody is immune; Jennifer from the Instagram crowd is still scrolling through her “perfect pair” options.
Angela’s Makeup Marathon
If you’re wondering how many makeup steps have recently become a marathon, meet 26‑year‑old teacher Angela Quek. She usually spends about half a minute prepping for the day. Behind the curtains, however, it turns into an hour‑long mise‑en‑scène.
“I don’t even know why I feel this way. I used to take 30 min to dress up, put on light makeup, and didn’t even need to double‑check my eyeliner,” Angela says, wiping the mascara streak from her eye.
“Yesterday, before my date, I actually spent a whole hour applying makeup and switching outfits. All I could think about was, ‘What if he thinks I look different after not seeing me for so long?’”
Remember, the camera’s in the same place as that phantom “first‑date” nerve—you’ll probably take to the second pan only after your eyeliner is Rhino‑squared.
Tips to Reboot Your Social Groove
- Set a “self‑prep” timer. 5 minutes is $^{\displaystyle \frac{1}{2}}$ the classic routine; you’ll get a superhero swirl.
- Go on a mini‑date with a friend first—just to feel the thrill of a ‘normal’ meetup in a low‑stakes setting.
- Swap the intensity—if you’re nervous about appearance, bring a happy‑fun game or trivia to distract!
- Vegetable Snacks for Safe Birthing of Confidence—snack on strawberries; your face will glow, and you’ll have less time to worry about facial symmetry.
When you finally step outside, look around, laugh a bit, and say “Thank you for meeting me in my 5‑month‑old social bubble.” That’s how the drama gets saved.
I just started dating and our conversations feel stale after not seeing each other for so long
Rekindling Love in a Post‑Lockdown World
Getting back into the groove after a pause can feel like stepping back into a puddle—cramping, awkward, and a little wet. That’s especially true for couples still riding the honeymoon high, who suddenly find their hairpinords of affection tangled by COVID‑19.
Why the Nerve‑Racking Reunion Happens
Clinical sexologist Dr. Martha Tara Lee points out that the real sticking point isn’t the physical distance but the pressure to “return to normal.” When the pandemic ends, many people pretend they’re ready to resume their relationship without a proper debrief.
Step One: Drop the “Same‑Feeling” Myth
- Every story is a different story. Even if you’ve spent years together, the dynamic can change after months apart.
- Give yourselves room to re‑discover each other. Small talk isn’t just filler—it’s the bridge that gets you back to each other’s worlds.
Step Two: Track Your Emotions
Instead of rushing to “just be like we used to,” sit down, have a coffee, and unpack what’s been brewing inside. Lee advises couples to be open about their awkwardness. It’s not a flaw—it’s a solid chance to deepen connection.
Practical Tips From Dr. Lee
- Re‑evaluate expectations. Ask yourself, “What do I really want from this snapshot of us?”
- Be brutally honest. Share the quirks and the jazz that feels off.
- Create a space for dialogue. More conversation about what matters can pave the way for a stronger bond.
So, next time you meet face‑to‑face after the lockdown, remember this: the most genuine love isn’t about keeping up the same script—it’s about authentically rewriting your chapter together. Happy reconnecting!
We met, and he’s asked for some space and time-off, what do I do?
When Love Turns Into a Game of Overprotective Zombie Styles
First off: Hand it over… but don’t let yourself become a mind‑reading, alarm‑raising employee. You can give in to the pressure, but figure out why you’re feeling so uneasy before you grab the camera and turn every single post into a staring contest.
With the pandemic putting the brakes on inside jokes and late‑night chats, it’s high time we ask ourselves:
- Do I want to know every detail about his life?
- Do I constantly question his grocery‑list choices?
- Do I get frustrated when he prefers Taco Tuesday over fish Sunday?
These habits are golden clues that you’re leaning into the “controlling buddy” lane. Lee’s quick take: “Control is really a reflection of your own uneasy glow‑stick insecurity. Ironically, trying too hard to steer can backfire and make the other person want to log off permanently.”
So, what if he hits the reset button?
Don’t go straight to the “panic” bench. He might be using the COVID lock‑down as a smokescreen while planning a breakup. He’s just using the obvious context that everyone knows is not ideal.
It’s all about space— physical, emotional, and psychological. Let him know you’re all ears for why his ice‑breaker is not working.
Got a “no” card? Here’s the playbook
- Ask for a fresh conversation.
- Assure him you’re ready to listen.
- Invite him to talk about what’s gnawing deep‑down in the relationship.
Remember: beating on the knee‑jazz is less effective than a gentle “Let’s talk.” That’s the move that might crack the avocado of trust. And if all else fails, consider a therapy session or a healthy dose of coffee—because sometimes you have to talk coffee to talk life.
So we’ve tried everything, but it has been really difficult to warm up to each other…what now?
When Love Stalls: Time to Call in the Professionals
Feeling stuck in the same arguing loop for months? It’s time to get some help.
Why Couples Often Wait Too Long
- They think a stranger can’t “get it.”
- They’re comfortable sweeping feelings under the rug.
- They hope the problem will simply go away if they play it out.
These habits are the biggest reason why couples start counseling too late. Rather than confronting the drama head‑on, many try to “navigate alone” and end up losing precious time.
The Real Power of a Relationship Therapist
A counselor is like a communication GPS that helps you navigate the tricky turns in a romantic journey. They:
- Facilitate honest chats that won’t feel like a courtroom.
- Teach practical skills to avoid the classic “cat fight” patterns.
- Show you how to support each other and build a happier partnership.
Take the First Step – It’s Not Over‑the‑Top
Getting a professional involved isn’t about admitting defeat; it’s about investing in the future you both deserve. Pick a therapist, schedule an appointment, and start rebuilding those cracks before they widen into a canyon.
Note: The original piece was first shared by Her World Online.
