How Long To Date Again?

[joko]

Just curious -

when you have a painful, yet amicable split with someone, after a 5 year relationship, how long would you say is 'acceptable' before one of you starts pursuing a new partner?

i know 'technically' they can date immediately, if they wanted to, and the other cannot stop them, but i mean in terms of when its not insensitive and 'too soon'.

although i know it would probably feel a bit weird at any length really, and i know there are no rules.

i realise lots will have a different view on this

thanks

[boxtops]

There isn't a rule. Some people will seek consolation by starting to date again immediately - others will leave it some months until they have come to terms with the split and how they feel about it, before getting embroiled with a new person.

It depends on the circumstances, too - if one of the couple is happier than the other one about the relationship ending, they may feel relieved and start to look around much earlier than the other partner.

[EcclesCake]

I don't think I have ever gone hunting for a new partner. I'm more inclined to let things take a natural course and see what happens.

I think I went about three months between my previous relationship ending and my current one beginning, although I was already friends with the now Mr Cake.

[Zacs-Master]

Are you the dumper or dumpee?

[cazzz1975]

the only concern with dating too early is you may end up with a rebound relationship, I think initially some time alone is good and can help sort out your head after a break up (no matter how amicable)

I suppose hooking up with someone else straight away could be deemed a bit tactless but some people dont like being alone and will seek out a replacement almost immediately.

[DaisyNonna]

Tact seems to have gone out of fashion

[pixie373]

As long as it's after the split and not before...