If there is one constant for people facing divorce, it is that life goes on. Once the divorce decree is signed, your life has changed (even though some can argue that life changes long before this). Nevertheless, it is important to move on emotionally.
With that comes dating (or moving into another relationship). For some, the very notion of dating may be paralyzing. For others, its an opportunity to make up for lost time and lost chances at happiness. Whatever position you are in, here are some basic rules for dating after divorce.
You don’t have to keep up with your ex – The temptation to check up on your ex to see what he or she is up to may be great, but it is likely to hinder your ability to move on. So don’t get concerned about what’s on their Facebook page or what their latest tweets are about.
Don’t date simply because your ex has someone – In the same “keeping up with the Jones'” sense, you don’t have to jump into the dating scene simply because your ex appears to have moved on. It’s okay to be by yourself until you meet the right person.
You don’t have to fall in love again – Remember dating is about having fun and learning about people. You may fall in love, but then again, you may not. With that said, you should not be so intent on falling in love that it prevents you from experiencing life and all it has to offer.
Source: HuffingtonPost.com, The do’s and don’ts of post divorce dating, July 25, 2013
