How long after separation/divorce were you interested in dating?

In retrospect I would have liked to have had the confidence to spend some time on my own and have a relationship with myself following my divorce. I rushed into a relationship quickly and did not take the time to get to know myself. At the time, I was not comfortable with Hook Up/Casual Sex culture and only wanted to have sex with someone I trusted (the lack of comfort did not last long and following that first post coming out relationship I did dive in quite deep).

So right after my marriage to my wife I had an eight month relationship with a guy whom was a great guy but whom I realized I could not commit to long term. A few relationships later I finally decided the time was right for me to have a relationship with myself and I took about eight months without dating anyone and being alone. It was a good decision and I was able to sort through a few of my remaining life questions during this period. Following this period I found myself in a loving relationship where confidence, respect and positivity form the foundation.

I don’t think there is a right amount of specific time for anyone to try and follow. Even during my prior relationships I did continue to work on myself but I was not able to bring it all together until I was alone. Maybe eight month works for you, maybe a few years may work. The question you need to ask yourself is what do you want to achieve on your journey towards self actualization and how does building confidence, self respect, self esteem and love for yourself fit into that.

I am not one to look back and hold regrets, but if I could have taken a mulligan right after coming out I would have liked to have had the courage to be on my own for an extended period fo time rather than rush into a relationship out of fear of being alone.