10 Signs You’re Ready To Start Dating

I am a Writing and Publishing student at RMIT, Melbourne,…

There’s a lot of pressure on single people, but it’s important to start dating only when you feel ready. Don’t feel pressured by what others are doing. Some people start dating earlier or later than others, both are normal. Entering a relationship is a big step emotionally, so it’s wise to start dating only when you feel comfortable and confident in yourself as an individual. Here are some of the common signs you’re reading to start dating.

1. You know who you are

When you start dating someone, you want them to like you for you, so it’s important you’re confident in who you are. Don’t feel like you have to pretend to be someone you’re not just because you think it’s what they want. Dating is a two-way street, so be true to yourself just like you’d expect your partner to be.

2. You know what kind of relationship you want

Even if you’ve never dated someone before, many people have an idea what they’re looking for. Are you looking for a long-term relationship? Do you just want a hook up? Something in-between? If you’ve taken the time to seriously think about this, it’s a sign you’re ready to start dating.

3. You watch a lot of rom-coms

Have you suddenly started watching a lot of romantic comedies? This is a tell-tale sign you’re ready to start dating. What you watch on Netflix is a window to what you’re feeling right now. So if you find yourself consistently choosing romantic comedies over true crime, perhaps it’s time you downloaded Tinder.

4. You see couples everywhere

When you want to be in a relationship, it’s like the whole world is full of couples! Everywhere you look, you spot couples kissing and holding hands. Even animals seem to move in pairs. So instead of staring at them wistfully, perhaps its time to consider going on a date.

5. You feel like a third wheel

Do you ever hang out with other couples and feel like a third wheel? If the idea of being the only single one in a group makes you feel nauseous, then you’re probably ready to start dating.

6. You downloaded dating apps

Let’s face it, everyone who is dating uses Tinder. The moment you decided to download a dating app is the moment you decided you’re ready to start dating. So stop waiting, start swiping!

7. You’re over your old bf/gf

If you’ve had a partner before, a sign you’re ready to date again is when it doesn’t hurt to think about them. Even if you’ve only had an unrequited crush, if you think about them less and less everyday then you’re ready to move on to someone new.

8. You have a new crush

Is there someone you have in mind to start dating? Are they all you can think about? This is the most obvious sign you’re ready to start dating. The hardest part is deciding to do something about it, but if you’re ready to date, you will make a move!

9. You know what you want sexually

Are you comfortable with your own desires? Have you taken the time to explore what you like and dislike? Do you know if or when you’d introduce sex into a relationship? These are the kind of questions you need to ask yourself before you start dating. You need to know what you’re comfortable with, what you’re not comfortable with, so you can communicate clearly with your partner. It’s a true sign you’re ready to start dating when you have taken the time to explore these questions.

10. You fantasize a lot

Do you often find yourself daydreaming about your imaginary girlfriend/boyfriend? Do you have imaginary conversations, picture yourself going on dates or Netflix and chilling it? If you’re caught fantasizing about dating someone who doesn’t exist, it’s time you find someone real to do it with.