When you realize you’ve been single for far too long, it’s that dreaded sinking feeling. We’ve all been there. It’s common to swear off dating for the rest of the time after getting out of a horrible relationship. Except… you didn’t mean indefinitely mean. Here are the 10 signs you’re ready to date again!
After a while, you wake up and discover that you have no recollection of the last time you dressed up and let a stranger drive you about for the night. While the “end of the world” is looming, you’re not sure if you’re ready to start dating again.
Seeing this happen repeatedly—and even going through it—is nothing new to me. Many people get so absorbed in their work or their “single” lives that they fail to take time to pursue other interests. When it comes to ex-lovers, some can’t imagine dating anybody else.
No, I’m not talking about putting on your favorite pair of jeans and going out on a date.
Even while leaving the blissful solitude of being single can be difficult, there are some telltale signals that it’s time to take the plunge and start dating again. In addition to your friends urging you to move out of your comfort zone and start dating, here are some other indicators that it may be time for you to do so.
1. You can't recall the last time you went out with your friends or went out with your family.
The last date you went on may be so long ago that it’s time for a new one. Consider dating again if it’s been a long time since you were in a committed relationship.
2. You no longer dwell on the past. In this case, it's time to return to the dating game.
It’s OK to start dating again without worrying about whether or not your ex will have any influence on your new relationship once you’ve stopped obsessing over their social media or harboring resentment toward them.
3. The prospect of being taken out to dinner by someone you don't know doesn't cause you any anxiety.
In your “single power” period, you may have rolled your eyes or felt disgusted by the idea of someone taking you out to dinner. In other words, it’s a sign of readiness if you suddenly start thinking about taking someone out or letting someone take you out.
4. Relationships with friends are no longer something you dread.
Sometimes, people aren’t ready to date if all their friends in partnerships turn their noses up at them or even resent them for it—though this can also be caused by a “single power” period. To begin dating, you must be happy for your pals who are going out with people, dating individuals, or even in a relationship.
5. When you're alone, you fantasize about curling up with a loved one and watching movies all day.
Some people crave company when they spend all their spare time binge-watching Netflix and other strange movies. You miss human contact could be a strong indicator that you’re ready to reenter the dating scene.
6. Lovely folks make you wonder if they're still single.
For me, this was one of the most ominous indicators. If a handsome stranger went by me on the street, I didn’t give him a second glance. If he is single, I would like to go on a date with him… but if he is already married, I don’t know what to do. If this describes you, it’s time to get out and meet people.
7. You won't get furious watching romantic comedies.
Most romantic comedies have plot lines that many single people find “unrealistic” and “unlikely to happen in real life.” If you’ve started to appreciate them and can imagine yourself as one of the major characters, get out there and find them again!
8. With or without a relationship, you are content.
Although it may seem counterintuitive, isn’t being content with your single status a sign that you’re ready to start dating? That is correct. This sign that you’re prepared to put yourself out there and look for a partner, even though you know you can be happy without one.
9. You have an idea of the kind of person you'd like to meet.
Many individuals have no notion of what type of person they want to be in their life. Such individuals have no place in the dating scene. It’s a good indicator if you know exactly what type of person you want to date that you’re ready to get down to dating.
10. For valid reasons, you want to begin dating.
In other words, you’re not just looking to hook up with someone to get free meals, movies, and comfy clothes. At least once in my life, I’ve been guilty of this. It wasn’t until I met my lover that I realized how much I craved t-shirts and sweatpants.
If you’re looking for a long-term relationship or a life mate, you’re in a league with folks already dating. Having this feeling means you’re ready to restart your life.
Dating again might be a lot to deal with. Is it possible for you to get by—while maintaining your self-respect? You can tell if you’re ready to start over by looking for any of these 10 signs you’re ready to date again!