Finding Love After 50: Do's and Don'ts I've Learned from The Golden Bachelorette

As I’ve been watching The Golden Bachelorette and recapping each episode on YouTube, I can’t help but think about second chances at love later in life. The show brings up so many feelings about finding companionship after 50—and I’ve learned quite a few lessons just by observing the contestants. Whether you’re actively dating or just curious about love after 50, here are some do’s and don’ts I’ve picked up from watching Joan Vassos and the Golden Bachelors on The Golden Bachelorette that I think we can all apply to our own lives.

DO: Be Vulnerable, But Don’t Rush Into It

One thing I’ve noticed is how important it is to open up emotionally—but timing is key. While it’s tempting to share your past heartbreak or the loss of a spouse right away, it’s important not to lead with that. Starting a new relationship by unloading deep, emotional stories too soon can make things feel heavy. Instead, allow that part of the conversation to flow naturally when the right moment presents itself.

DON'T: Share your deepest pain too early. While vulnerability is beautiful, wait until there’s a foundation of trust before diving into your most personal stories. Almost every Golden Bachelor, from Chock to Charles L., had great loves in their lives, but need to prove they're open to new love.

Joan and Chock on their Disney date!

DO: Be Yourself

This may seem obvious, but The Golden Bachelorette reminds me that it’s so important to just be yourself. It’s easy to fall into the trap of assuming what the other person wants—especially if you’re feeling a bit rusty in the dating world. But don’t forget, you’re not just trying to fit into someone else’s idea of a perfect match. Be authentic, and let your unique qualities shine. After all, that’s what people will be drawn to in the long run. Dan does a great job of this with his talent show performance, incorporating his familial tremors by using streamers!

DON'T: Try to mold yourself into what you think someone else wants. Authenticity is the key to a real connection.

DO: Take Time to Build a Connection

It’s tempting to rush into things, especially when sparks are flying, but one thing The Golden Bachelorette highlights is the value of taking your time. A real connection is built over time, through shared experiences, open communication, and a deeper understanding of each other’s lives. Allow the relationship to grow naturally.

DON'T: Feel like you have to rush into anything. Take the time to really get to know each other. I really like Mark but when he asks to kiss her in German at the end of episode 2, it felt like it came out of no where!

DO: Keep an Open Mind

As we get older, it’s easy to become set in our ways or have certain ideas about what our future partner should be like. But life is full of surprises, and love can come in unexpected forms. Watching The Golden Bachelorette, I’ve seen how important it is to keep an open mind. You may find that someone who seems like a surprising choice at first could turn out to be the perfect match.

DON'T: Close yourself off to someone just because they don’t fit your initial “checklist.” Love doesn’t always look the way you expect it to.

DO: Embrace Your Life Experience

Finally, one of the biggest takeaways from the show—and something I wholeheartedly agree with—is that your life experience is one of your greatest strengths. Whether it’s lessons from past relationships or the personal growth you’ve undergone, don’t shy away from sharing your wisdom and experience when the time is right. It’s what makes you, you.

DON'T: Downplay your past or feel like it’s a burden. Embrace your journey, and let it enrich your relationships.

Love after 50 is a different experience than it might have been earlier in life, but that doesn’t make it any less exciting, meaningful, or rewarding. If anything, it’s a new chapter filled with opportunities for growth, connection, and joy. So, if you’re looking for love again, take these lessons from The Golden Bachelorette to heart—and remember, it’s never too late for second chances in love.

Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel so you don't miss a my recap of every Golden Bachelorette episode this season! And until next time, Stay Sensational! 🤍, Lois

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