For many people, there comes a point where you begin to wonder if you are ready to date again. Or maybe your friends and family have started trying to set you up on a blind date. For me, the warmer months get me excited about meeting new people. However, there’s nothing worse than getting into a new relationship before you are ready.
The best time to begin dating is when you feel confident and happy in yourself rather than seeking affirmation from someone else. Before you can fall in love with anyone else, you must first love yourself. After that, you might feel ready to allow your friends and family to set you up on those blind dates or setup that online dating profile.
Still not sure if you are ready to meet someone new? Here are 5 signs you are ready to date again:
1 of 5
You’re Not Bitter About Your Past Relationship Anymore
Anyone else stalks their ex after a breakup? I go through every social media account they are on and sometimes even their friends’ accounts. But slowly the impulse begins to fade. I am no longer checking in to see what they are doing.
After a while, I even stop caring.
Keeping tabs on what your ex is up to is not only terrible on the recovery process but it’s a good sign you are not ready to date someone new. Letting go of an ex can be so difficult but once you have, it’s a good sign that you are ready to open your heart.
2 of 5
You feel your best self physically and emotionally
If you feel like you have self-work to do then you may want to address that before you jump into the dating scene. If you are not happy with your job, health, or your life in general, working on these things first while you are single will be easier than when trying to juggle a new dating life.
It also means you are putting your best self forward when entering the dating pool. When you have something positive to give and share with others, then you’re ready to start dating.
If you find yourself saying things like, “I’m such a mess” or “Why am I so insecure”, then you need to heal these first before entering the dating scene.
But know that you do not have to be perfect to be worthy of being dated. It’s important to work on yourself and seek therapy if necessary. Know your worth and bring your best self to the table.
3 of 5
you want a new relationship for the right reasons
You know that feeling when you meet someone new and you feel the butterflies. It can be a quick glance at an attractive guy on the train or a quick conversation waiting in line at the grocery store. I immediately text the group chat to tell all my friends. That feeling is a good sign!
Dating should be fun and exciting and should not be too stressful.
Date when you feel excited to meet people again rather than when you are trying to fill a void. Date when you are excited to share your life with someone again rather than waiting for someone to come and save you.
Entering in this mindset could attract partners who want to “save” people or even worse, have the same issues as you. This can also increase the likelihood of being taken advantage of or experiencing abuse. Just note, you are not responsible for the abuse at someone else’s hand.
A healthy relationship is not about saving each other. It’s about giving and sharing.
4 of 5
You’ve reconnected with what matters
After a breakup, it’s important to regather and get your sense of independence back. Reconnecting with friends, pushing yourself at work, or exploring new and old passions/interests. Even just taking time to care for yourself and have some fun.
What do you love doing? What can you work on that will give your life meaning?
Answering these questions is so important because it allows you to realize that a relationship is just one part of your life and not your entire life. Work on reconnecting to your life first and you’ll be ready when that new person comes along.
5 of 5
You are more in tune with what you are looking for
Before you begin to date again you should have a good sense of what is important to you. What morals and values are non-negotiable? What are you looking for? These are all important questions you should have the answers to before you meet someone new.
A few years ago, I dated a guy that I thought could be the one. He had all the things that were important to me: a good job, well educated, and made me laugh. He had one kid from a previous marriage so I assumed he wanted more. Never assume! After a few months of dating, he shared that he didn’t want any more children. I was heartbroken but I knew it was important to end things because our values no longer aligned.
If your looking to date for a serious relationship then having conversations about your stance on marriage, kids, faith, money, career (just to name a few) are so important.
If you are ready to start dating again, then set out with a positive mindset and remember that everything is an opportunity to learn more about yourself and what you do and don’t want. Relationships are great but they are not a necessity in your life.
Let things happen naturally when the time is right. There is no rush!
Rather than focusing on a relationship, focus on becoming the best version of yourself and having fun. Remember to trust the journey and trust yourself!
Did you find this post useful or want to get back to it later? Save THIS PIN to your Relationships board on Pinterest!
Leave a Reply