Not all times are conducive for dating. Sure, time is of the essence when it comes to finding the one but that doesn’t mean that you should recklessly search for it, often for the wrong reasons. So it’s wise to take a break from dating once in a while. Here are several valid reasons to distance yourself from the dating scene until you have allotted enough time to resolve them

One example is if you’ve just gone out of a relationship that lasted for at least six months. Relationships like that usually takes its toll once the breakup happens. Don’t date immediately after that. You’re just on the rebound and that my friend, is always a recipe for disaster. You are still needy and vulnerable and in no state to commit yourself to another person again. Try to get over your ex first, the real kind of moving on…not the pretend and fake “I’m over her/him routines”. This may take time but with patience and hard work, it is possible.

Another time is when a close family member dies. This only applies though if you are still in the early dating stages. If you’re involved in a committed relationship then the support that you get from your understanding partner is crucial. But if you’ve just started dating, it is a good idea to end it first until you have come to terms with your loss. Trust me, it may not be immediately apparent but grief can change a person in a lot of ways. These may also take its toll if you attempt to include someone in your life while on it.

If you’re a bum. No seriously. Relationships take a lot of work and it isn’t for someone who isn’t in a secure state, emotionally and financially too. Ensure that you are secure first before spending energy and money for someone else. Don’t be so hard on yourself though because losing a job is just a normal part of your life’s journey. But still it would be better if you take a break from dating until you find a new one.

You may also want to refrain from dating if you’re in the middle of therapy or treatment from a diagnosed affliction or addiction. Check with your support group and ask them if you’re in a state where you’re ready to date if you’re not sure. But if it has something to do with deep mental problems like being suicidal, then it’s definitely better to stop dating for a while.

Lastly, if you are separated but not yet legally divorced. Legal breakups are messy so make sure to allocate time for it properly. There will be a lot of marital issues to be settled and this will only eat up your time and attention if you decide to date. So wait before it’s finalized and over then you could start.