Hey, welcome back! I'm so glad you're here. In episode 5 and first in a three-part series where I’m diving into the worst dating advice out there for women over 40—yes, we’re going there! Today, we're peeling back the layers on some of the most misguided advice that's circulating around, why it's so damaging, and what to do instead. Spoiler: this advice isn't just ineffective; it actually pulls us away from genuine connection.

Episode Highlights:

1. The Truth About Inauthentic Dating Scripts

We've all heard the tips on what to text or say to keep a guy hooked: "magic phrases" and rigid scripts meant to "win him over." But following this type of advice? It only leads to what I call “verbal constipation.” Holding back our real selves for fear of losing someone, or waiting for the “perfect moment” to speak, keeps us from ever being seen or truly connecting.

2. Why ‘Playing It Cool’ Keeps Us Stuck

Sometimes we’re told to *wait* and *hold back,* or to never share too much too soon. But when we’re not honest or open, we end up projecting a version of ourselves that isn’t real. And, surprise—this keeps us attracting people who aren’t aligned with what we truly want. Real connection requires spontaneity and authenticity, not strategy.

3.Limiting Beliefs That Hold Us Back

There are a few core beliefs that drive us to follow this harmful advice, like:

- Fear of being fully seen (what if I'm "too much"?)

- Worry that the right person doesn't exist for us

- Settling for pseudo-relationships over real ones because it seems better than being alone

These beliefs create a pattern where we end up chasing after people who aren’t truly available or interested.

4. A New Approach: Embracing Authenticity in Love

If you’re tired of the chase, the answer starts with making the decision to show up as your *true self*. In this episode, I share ways to get started on that journey, including practical tips like tuning into what you genuinely want in a relationship. Take a few moments to imagine the type of life and feelings you want with a partner—these are the real markers of compatibility, not just surface-level traits.

This is only part one! We’ll keep this exploration going next week by looking at even more bad dating advice women are given and dive deeper into how we can flip the script (authentically!) to make real connections.

Thanks for joining me on this journey—remember, real love is closer than you think. See you next week for Part Two!