This is one of the most common questions—and one of the hardest to answer. There’s no universal timeframe. Some people feel ready within months, while others need years. The key is to check in with your intentions.
Are you dating because you genuinely want to connect—or are you seeking to fill a void? Are you running toward something new, or simply running away from pain?
If you still find yourself comparing every potential date to your ex, or hoping that dating will make you forget the past, it might be worth taking more time. Healing isn’t linear, and sometimes slowing down is exactly what you need to move forward more intentionally.
And if you have children, your considerations might be even more complex. Feeling guilty or uncertain about how your dating life could affect them is normal. Trust your instincts, and don’t feel pressured to rush into anything. You can honor both your children’s well-being and your own emotional needs.
