There are always two sides to a coin. Everything has its benefits and downside, especially when it comes to a relationship that has to be established when you are over 40 and want to date a friend. There are lots to consider before you take a leap.

When you are over 40 and want to date a friend there are many things that you should consider:

• Dating will change your relation with your friend forever. Frankly if you are over 40 there are very less chances that you will make new friends which you can trust and will last you a long time like the friends you already have. As dating will take your friendship to a new level of interaction and there will be no possibility of reversion if things do not turn out to be as expected. Chances are that you will not be able to continue your previous relationship.
• On the other hand, an old friend knows you well and will not require learning about you. Your friend already knows your strengths and weaknesses, your likes and dislikes and most of all; your friend will appreciate the same from you.
• Attempting a new level of intimacy is worth risking years of friendship?

With these facts and arguments in mind one can assess his or her situation and move further with it or retreat while maintaining the present status of relationship.

On the other side of the coin you'll find situations where friendship turned into relationship through dating. There are many couples out there who after years of friendship decided to date and settled down as successful couples for many years.

This is why the idea of dating a friend is a good idea for some while it may not be the same for others. What you have to do is assess your current relationship and discuss it with your friend. If the feelings are mutual and both consider it as a good option then you should try. But remember that after dating and finding it unsuccessful you will never be able to go back being good friends. This is the biggest disadvantage that not only you lose a lover but you will also lose a good friend.
over 40's dating

over forty dating

So think about it and take your time. You have been in relationship before and know what makes a relationship fail or succeed. Maybe this is what you wanted all your life and at the same time this is not what should happen the decision has to be mutual and based not on lot many things than just a sudden crush.