Finding, Fixing, and Falling Back In Love With Yourself After a Break-up or Divorce
April 20, 2015
Television journalist Fadal (Why Hasn’t He Called?), who formerly ran a matchmaking business, presents the rules of the game for today’s “new single” (specifically, single heterosexual women). Married in 2007 and divorced in 2012, Fadal knows her subject from the inside out, and she also incorporates advice from relationship experts. According to her, it takes about a year to get back on one’s feet, the first 90 days being the most difficult. Fadal, following her father’s advice that “it’s better to be alone than lonely with someone,” emphasizes building self-confidence and learning to enjoy one’s own company. Heartache is heartache, but digital-age breakups present particular problems. Fadal thoroughly addresses this angle of singledom, with advice on unfriending the ex on Facebook, resisting the urge to use social media to spy on his activities, and mastering the etiquette of online dating (e.g., insist on recent photos). Fadal’s hands-on approach also addresses everyday issues like managing finances, taking care of one’s health, and finding new places to meet men; she suggests that the Apple Store is the new bookstore in that regard. Newly single straight women will find an ample supply of practical ideas here for making a gradual and successful transition to flying solo again. Agent: Carol Mann, Carol Mann Agency.