Now that you are divorced or otherwise single, what are you looking for? You’ve probably been asked that question – or a variation of it – many times. Most of us can readily identify what we don’t want, but putting a finger on exactly what we’re looking for in a partner and/or a relationship is often a difficult task.

Here are three questions that you should ask yourself as you’re preparing to start dating again.

1. Are You Looking For A Serious Relationship?  

If your answer to this question is “yes,” then your approach to dating may be a little different from the tactics used by someone looking for a casual setup.

Questions such as “are you looking to just ‘date’ or are you looking for a serious relationship” will help you narrow down your search for others who have similar relationship goals. Most will share their intentions, especially if they have been divorced.

2. Are You Looking To Date Many Different People At The Same Time?

If your answer to this question is “yes,” you’ve set a solid starting point. Sharing your intentions up front avoids hurt feelings and very uncomfortable future conversations.

3. Are You Simply Interested In Friends With Benefits? 

This is the tricky question, but if you’re being honest with yourself, it’s really not that hard to answer. If your answer to this question is “yes,” then again … great starting point. There are many individuals who are not interested in this type of relationship. You don’t want to hurt or offend anyone, but if dating is not something you want, nor does it interest you on any level, then you don’t want to be involved with someone who does.

Dating is very different than it used to be and you truly may not know what you are looking for at first. Take time to figure it all out before you get serious with someone new.