Dating on the rebound, especially after divorce, can lead to unpleasant consequences for those involved. We usually begin these relationships at a time when we are not as emotionally grounded as we should be in order to initiate a healthy partnership. Rebound relationships occur as a result of our desires to fill the voids left from our previous relationships. We look for an easy way to obtain ...

Dating on the rebound, especially after divorce, can lead to unpleasant consequences for those involved. We usually begin these relationships at a time when we are not as emotionally grounded as we should be in order to initiate a healthy partnership. Rebound relationships occur as a result of our desires to fill the voids left from our previous relationships. We look for an easy way to obtain the sense of companionship that we desire - but it doesn't always deliver.

Here are some tips on how to cope with heartbreak while avoiding rebound relationships:

Give yourself time. You need time to come to an understanding about what went wrong in your previous relationship so you can avoid entering a similar situation in the future. It is important to stay away from dating situations until you know you will be able to avoid the pitfalls that caused you heartbreak in the past.

Be picky. Despite the pain and discouragement that comes with heartbreak, it is important to keep your standards high as you return to the dating scene. One of the best things that you can do to avoid an undesirable rebound relationship is to be very discerning about those you decide to date the next time around. In order to avoid falling into another heartbreaking relationship, pick and choose a partner for whom you confidently feel you are well-suited. It is important to take time to evaluate your next relationship and avoid falling into the next dating opportunity that arises.

Beware of the easy relationship route. When we look for a rebound, we need someone fast. There’s no time to find someone with whom we really connect, so we usually cling to someone we already know. If you find attraction for someone you know but have never had feelings for before, take a minute to evaluate your personal motives before diving into a new relationship.

Leave the past in the past. Before you even consider another relationship, you need to make sure your past relationship is behind you. Take some time to do some self-assessment on your progress in recovering from your past heartbreak in order to save yourself further heartache that an obscure rebound relationship can bring.

Alexandra is an aspiring journalist. She currently attends Syracuse University’s S.I Newhouse School of Public Communications and plans to graduate with a degree in Newspaper Journalism.