Recovering from a divorce or bad breakup is difficult, but these five signs will let you know you’re ready to get back into the dating game.

The dating world can seem intimidating after an especially tough breakup or divorce. You’re broken-hearted, angry, frustrated, lonely, hurt, depressed, or some combination of those feelings. You also might feel resentful toward the idea of dating, knowing that your last relationship ended the way it did.

These feelings are normal. After a breakup, it’s important that you take some time for yourself—to heal, and to reconnect with your identity as an individual. But it can be tough to know when it’s time to jump back into the dating game.

Fortunately, these five signs can clue you in:

1.    You don’t need someone else to be happy. Partners can elevate our happiness, but only when we’re happy with ourselves. If you feel truly satisfied with yourself as an individual, you’re ready to start dating again.

2.    You aren’t consumed by negative feelings about your last relationship. You may still feel hurt, resentful, or even angry, but those feelings don’t control you. You control them, and they no longer interfere with your daily emotions.

3.    You’re open to multiple options. If you’re desperate to settle into a long-term relationship or you’re only interested in one-time flings, the dating scene may not be right for you yet. When you’re ready, it’s important that you’re open to multiple options.

4.    You feel capable of trust. This is a sign you can only decide for yourself. Ask yourself—are you ready to trust someone, even if it takes a while? If the honest answer is yes, you are ready to move on.

5.    You’re excited to date. Ultimately, only you can decide what’s right for you. If you’re excited to start dating again, have at it!

If you notice all five of these signs, it’s time to get back into dating. It might be hard at first, so take it slow, but try to enjoy it for what it is every step of the way.

 

Sheila Blagg is a Divorce Mediator certified  through the Ohio Supreme courts, & founder & CEO of Divorce 2 Dating, the first social networking site for individuals navigating a divorce. Follow Sheila on Twitter and Facebook!