What Happens After Divorce?

Your divorce is final and now you may be wondering what happens next.  After divorce comes the healing process, putting your life into perspective and preparing for your successful future.  Life after divorce can be rewarding and fulfilling and you can find love again when you're ready.

Are You Ready for Dating?

The healing process is different for everyone going through a divorce and may take some people a little longer.  Before you get into another relationship, you need to determine if you are emotionally and mentally ready to begin dating after your divorce.  If you still have feelings for your ex-spouse or are still harboring anger or resentment, then perhaps you need to deal with those emotions before involving another person in your life.

Now is the time to be honest with yourself about your feelings and your needs.  Maybe you desire to have companionship but not be in a committed relationship with someone.  Anyone that you decide to date should be told this upfront to avoid hurt feelings and false expectations.  Keep a positive attitude about re-entering the dating world and be prepared to meet new people.

How Will You Meet Potential Dates?

Becoming active in your community or enjoying your favorite pastimes is a great way to meet people.  You'll already be enjoying something that you like to do and you will encounter others who enjoy the same hobbies or activities as you.  This gives you the chance to strike up conversations and get to know a little about the person before you decide that you want to go out with them.

You can also meet people through your friends or family members that know of other single individuals.  If the person really knows you, they may be able to connect you with someone who shares your interests or who has the personality that could best match yours.

Many people are considering online dating and you could choose a reputable site that will allow you to meet other singles in your area or even in other parts of the country that are looking to find that special someone.

Are You Practicing Safe Dating?

It can be a little intimidating or uncomfortable going out with someone that you don't know for the first time.  You can make the experience better for yourself and your date by following a few simple rules that will help ensure your safety.

  1. You want to be able to concentrate on getting to know the person and enjoying yourself instead of worrying about being safe.
  2. You should agree to meet your date in a public place where you'll be surrounded by other people such as in a restaurant or museum.
  3. By taking your own transportation, you can come and go as you please without having to worry about relying on the other person when you're ready to leave or if you want to end the date early.
  4. Let someone know where you're going and the name of the person you're going out with before you go on your date.
  5. If it would make you feel more comfortable, you should double date and that way some of the pressure is taken off you and your date as you interact with the other couple.

Life after divorce is waiting for you and you can find the love you want by being open to new experiences and putting your past behind you.