Dating can be stressful at any age but those who find themselves single after 40 have special issues and special challenges. These can include: the complication of having children, hair loss and self consciousness about appearance, issues with childbearing, and even just being rusty at socializing.

Men still are usually the ones to initiate the date so dating tips for men over 40 are in order. For the women who are confident enough to ask men out, the first tip for men is to be flattered and to accept. After all, she has saved you that awkward moment and you know she actually is interested.

All men find asking women out to be stressful, but if you haven’t done it in 10 or 20 years, it’s even worse. Just understand that women feel that same stress, and be honest regarding your desire to get to know her. Make your proposal an invitation to do something simple together.

Meeting for coffee is an easy first date. That way, you are not pressured by being in some romantic setting that can add to pressure. Clubs are also a poor choice because it’s difficult to have a good talk over the loud music. Additionally, the issue of alcohol should be avoided until you have discussed your date’s position on that subject.

You also need to know how to handle the negative response. It may be that the person simply is rejecting the suggested activity rather than you. She may not enjoy sporting events or may not be able to dance or play golf. Try suggesting some other activity or picking different times or days. If she really does not want to see you, she will make it clear.

Most importantly, men over 40 should be able to accept no for an answer occasionally. Just because you don’t have chemistry with one person does not mean you are a poor date for everyone. Be nice and accept that it isn’t personal. If you keep trying, you will find the right person for you.

You also need to know what not to do. For example, don’t spend the entire date talking about other you have dated or had relationships with. Additionally, you should not try and be too suave and hand out empty compliments. Just be sincere - women can tell when you don’t mean what you’re saying.

Family can also be a sensitive issue. While it is okay to tell your date about your children and show her a few pictures, don’t go on forever. Above all, you should not make the date seem like a job interview for the position of stepmother.

Something else to remember is that in the early stages of a relationship, you should be warm and friendly, but you should not send out overtly sexual signals. This makes it seem like you are only interested in having sex, not a real relationship. Let things come naturally and don’t send the wrong message.

The most important thing to remember, however, is to be yourself. If you’re fake or you lie about yourself, you’ll end up just trying to remember what nonsense you’ve said. No one can maintain a relationship built on falsehoods, and you need to be hones if you want any chance at a real relationship.