You've just untied the knot and are embarking on your new single life. But are you really ready to take the advice of all those friends that tell you to "just get out there"? It depends. First, depending on your state, if you're separated from your spouse, then dating outside the relationship could create a legal snafu. A divorce that began originally as "no-contest" could turn into something highly contested, should you anger or provoke your soon-to-be ex. Check with your attorney about the specific laws and repercussions regarding dating before the divorce is final. Then again, the temptation to jump into a normal, loving relationship after an unhappy one is pretty hard to resist. In that case, there are a few questions to ask yourself to know if you're ready to date again. First, divorce is a big deal – have you given yourself time to grieve or at least contemplate your new life? If you don't formulate new plans and goals, you'll be somewhat adrift and not very well-equipped to handle a new relationship.
It doesn't matter how long it takes to get your emotions and life (living arrangements, custody if there are kids, financial planning, etc.) in order after a divorce. There's no correct timetable to follow. It could be two months or two years after a divorce before you feel ready to date again. Consider how you feel about your ex while you're taking that "emotional inventory." If you have residual feelings of love, jealousy if he or she is dating, or if any other drama is involved, then you may want to hold off on seeing someone else until those feelings are resolved. After all, getting involved in another mature relationship requires full participation from both parties to be successful.