So I'm getting up there in my older age and have given up hope on ever meeting someone romantically again. Well I've met an awesome man who gives me chills and butterflies in my stomach. I feel though I may inadvertently push him away because I lack confidence on so many levels. My question to all of you, gay or straight, how do I retain him without lowering my personal standards? I lack confidence kinda on purpose. I'm willing to change that. But I think it might some how change who I've become. This may seem all over the place. But I never thought I'd feel 'giddy' at 46. Any advice would be appreciated.
A few thoughts: Giddy is good. 46 is young. My concern is that statement about 'lowering' your personal standards. That can mean anything from sexual to financial ro hygene to ethical issues. I won't pry and ask, but you do need to think about why you feel that way. Don't give away anything crucial to your core, but without flexibility, none of us would ever end up in relationships. Just keep any changes to those that improve rather than damage you.
Feeling giddy at 51, so you've plenty of headroom.
We change, it's what we do as people. He'll change too, if he's worth having.
Define the lines you won't cross and see if he'll meet you there.
"I feel though I may inadvertently push him away because I lack confidence on so many levels."
This is a dangerous thing to think and say. You know how they say "You can't love someone if you don't love yourself"? If you lack confidence in who you are, you can't be the person someone else needs.
I think you should give it a go. If they're giving you butterflies, just maybe you're doing the same to them!
I have lately been through the same thing, at 69...after what I can describe as an addiction type feeling, I dumped him because I did not like the real threat to my hard-won inner peace. Best thing but damned hard!
Just believe you are still young and vibrant. I had a baby at 42.