Dating after divorce can be a delicate matter. There are a lot of variables to take into account when you're getting back out there, especially when there are kids involved. At some point, you'll likely decide to get back in the game, but it's hard to discern when the right time is to begin seeing new people. Everyone has their own opinion about when you should date post-divorce, but it seems, for the most part, women have reached a consensus. According to a recent survey, 65 percent of divorced women report that they began dating again within the first year of being separated or divorced.
In Aug. 2019, Worthy—an online auction marketplace—partnered up with six divorce and relationship experts to conduct a survey on dating after divorce, speaking with 1,700 women from across the country. According to their findings, 32 percent of women began dating when they were separated (but not yet divorced), 21 percent of women started dating within six months of getting divorced, and 12 percent of women began dating between six months to a year after getting divorced. In total, that means 65 percent of those surveyed started dating again within a year of their split.
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"Most divorces happen between the ages of 35 and 55, so women still have a good 30 to 50 years ahead of them," says divorce coach Jen Lawrence. "Most women have not abandoned the idea of growing old with a partner and are looking for a second shot at happiness. The only way to find that is to date!"
And even if they are not yet ready to partake, plenty of divorced women begin thinking about dating early on. The survey showed that 78 percent of women reported they started thinking about dating before their divorce papers were finalized. "Many women have been thinking about divorce for a while before they separate. Then, it’s often at least a year until the official divorce. So, most women have been mentally disconnected from their ex for a couple of years by the time they have the first date," says Lawrence.
Additionally, the prospect of finding a new healthier, happier relationship is exciting to those who've spent years in a marriage that left something to be desired. "After living in a loveless marriage, the flirting and flattery and feeling wanted again can be a lovely distraction," Lawrence said.
However, she warns recent divorcees against trying to heal past wounds through dating. And if you're worried that could be you, check out 23 Signs You're Not Ready to Date Again, According to Dating Experts.
