Going through a divorce is tough. Picking yourself up after what feels like a battlefield requires time and a great amount of self-care. Not all people deal with separation in the same way, though. Some are ready to date again almost immediately after the process of divorce is over while others seem to be more hesitant about devoting themselves to another person. No matter what type you are, here are some tips that will help you start over and date again.

1. Wait for the right time

Not rushing into a new relationship is maybe the most important tip for those who have just been through a divorce. You want to be sure that you’re doing it for the right reasons and not because you’re afraid of the loneliness you may feel at this moment. By letting the dust settle, you’ll avoid ending up with a wrong person (yet again). If you used to do it in the past, it is time to let go of your old habits and make some new ones. Ignore peer pressure or what the family is telling you. Only you can know when you feel ready. Take a healthy pause so you can step into a healthy relationship.

2. Love yourself first

This may sound like a cliché, but it’s true. When you are happy with yourself and the life you’re living, you won’t need a partner to compensate for that. Now is the perfect time to indulge in everything you enjoy doing. Is it art? Cooking classes? Maybe a business seminar? Find what it is that you love and dedicate your time and energy to it. Investing in yourself is always rewarding. Start exercising and spend more time with your friends. Meeting new people and bonding with the old ones will fill your life with happiness and also broaden your horizons.

3. Online dating

Living in the 21st century has its advantages and disadvantages. The fast pace of life and hectic schedules can mean less time for social life. Those who work hard on their careers usually have neither time nor energy to go out and look for someone they connect with. That’s why more and more people turn to dating agencies like the impeccable Executive Match. If you’re looking for a one-night stand than this is not the place for you. However, if you want to meet someone who is educated, professional and serious about finding love then you’re in for a treat.

4. Control your expectations

Resentment can easily take its toll on you. Sure, it’s easier to blame the other person for everything that went wrong, but the (awful) truth is that nobody is blameless. The same way we are responsible for our life successes, we are responsible for our mistakes too.  The important thing is not to hold it against yourself. Instead, analyse them and try to understand what made you do things in a certain way. There are great lessons to be learned from the past so don’t let them skip. They are crucial for shaping the expectations you will have in your future.

5. Don’t rush the introductions

Now the storm has passed, and you finally found someone you adore, you’ll want to share the news with the whole world. After all, that’s what couples do, right? Before you make the big announcement, step back for a minute and give it a thought. How long has it been? Are you sure this is not just a fling? There are many questions to be answered before you invite your new partner to a family dinner for the first time. Make sure you think them through. If you already have, then enjoy the wonderful feelings of excitement about your new relationship and feel free to share them with the world.

As different as people are, not everyone will experience the process of divorce in the same way. People deal with pain and loss in a different way, and that’s ok. These tips will help you boost your self-confidence and learn how to love yourself first. Also, they are here to remind you to work on yourself because it will change your relationship mindset completely. Remember – time heals, so when you are ready, you’ll open the door to love again and with them, your heart too.