Relationships end for a lot of reasons.  No matter what the reason, the loss can be devastating. Despite the pain of the lost relationship, eventually you’ll want to re-enter the dating scene. The trick is knowing when to you are ready to start dating again.  While there is no magic formula or time frame that works for everyone, you’ll know you’re ready to start dating when you can have successfully completed grieving and inventoried your last relationship.

Period of Grieving is Over

Even if you initiated the breakup, a period of grieving ensues. If you’re still feeling angry and continue to harbor bitterness over the failed relationship, you’re not ready to start a relationship.  Anger and bitterness are part of the grieving process.  Once you can talk about your relationship without anger and accept your portion of blame for the failed relationship, you’re ready to move on.

Take a Relationship Inventory

Spend some time reflecting on your past relationship.  What were the things that you liked the best? What were the things that drove you crazy?  In an ideal world, what would you want from a new relationship?  Once you know these answers, then look at what you bring to a relationship.  Knowing your strengths and what you want for the future helps you create a map into a new relationship and is a sure sign you’re ready to move on. If you need some help getting started with an inventory many online dating sites offer them.

Enter the Scene Slowly

The only way to know for sure if you’re ready is to test the waters.  Perhaps the easiest way is to visit an online dating site. Not only can you see a wider pool of possible dating partners but online dating sites allow you to email and instant message dating partners until you feel comfortable with meeting them in person.