Dating with OCD: A High-Achiever's Guide to Finding Love Without Losing Your Mind
You've mastered your career, built an impressive life, and now you're ready to tackle dating.
But there's one tiny (okay, maybe not so tiny) challenge: your OCD is making the dating scene feel like navigating a minefield in stilettos.
The Dating Dilemma: When OCD Joins the Party
Let's be real - dating is already complicated enough. Add OCD to the mix, and suddenly every text message becomes a novel to decode, and every coffee date feels like a job interview where you're both the candidate and the CEO.
Common Dating Challenges for Women with OCD:
Overthinking text responses (Is three dots too casual? Too formal?)
Constant checking of dating apps
Excessive research about potential dates
Fear of disclosing your OCD
Difficulty distinguishing between intuition and intrusive thoughts
The High-Achiever's Dating Paradox
Here's something I've noticed in my practice: the same drive that makes you exceptional in your career can complicate your dating life. You're used to controlling variables and predicting outcomes, but dating? It's wonderfully, frustratingly unpredictable.
Breaking Down the Control Barrier
Remember: A date isn't a business merger. You don't need a five-year plan before the first coffee meet-up.
Practical Dating Strategies for the OCD Mind
Set Realistic Dating Parameters
Limit dating app checking to specific times
Create boundaries for pre-date research
Establish clear communication guidelines for yourself
Managing First Date Anxiety
Prepare without over-preparing
Focus on connection, not perfection
Use mindfulness techniques to stay present
The Disclosure Discussion
When to tell someone about your OCD
How to frame the conversation
What details to share
Dating App Dos and Don'ts
Do:
Set specific swiping times
Trust your initial reactions
Take breaks when needed
Don’t:
Spend hours analyzing profiles
Seek reassurance through excessive matching
Let OCD write your messages
The Truth About Finding "The One"
Your OCD might be telling you there's one perfect person out there and one perfect way to find them. Let's challenge that thought together.
Embracing Uncertainty in Dating
Learning to date with OCD isn't about eliminating uncertainty - it's about getting comfortable with it. Think of it as exposure therapy in heels! 👠
Moving Forward with Confidence
Ready to take control of your dating life without letting OCD run the show? Here's your action plan:
Identify your specific dating triggers
Create a realistic dating schedule
Practice self-compassion during the process
Implement OCD management techniques
You've Got This!
Remember, you're not just managing OCD - you're creating space for real connection and love. In my Obsess Less, Love More Program, we dive deep into these strategies and more.
Ready to transform your dating life?
Remember: The right person will appreciate all of you - OCD and all.
