In the days and months following a break up, some guys and girls like to jump right back into the dating pool. They may go from one relationship to another without really giving thought to who or what they want in their life. While it can be lonely at times, staying single can help you find the best possible relationship for you. Here’s how.

Being Single Means You Rely on Yourself

Some people hate to be alone. They can’t stand for a minute that someone isn’t there to hang out with. But spending some time alone can actually mean that you begin to find out things about yourself. Maybe you really don’t enjoy watching so much TV, or maybe you do love to sit with a good book now and then. Any knowledge that helps you learn about yourself also helps you to choose the right person. Not just someone that happens to be around. Not just a warm body. But the right person.

Staying Singles Means You Learn How to Be a Better Partner

Maybe, just maybe, you stink in relationships. Maybe you are selfish or work too much not mentally there sometimes. If you jump from one relationship to another, you won’t see this about yourself. You’ll think it’s them when in fact it might be you. Learning this can save you from hurting other people and also working through issues in a relationship rather than just finding someone new to hang out with.

How Long Should You Stay Single?

You don’t have to stay out of a relationship forever, obviously, or it would defeat the whole point of taking a “dating break.” Three to six months is a good length of time. In that time, however, you’ve got to do some self-study. Figure out a few things while you’re single, don’t just lay around and watch TV and call up all your old boyfriends or girlfriends. Take the time to truly be self-sufficient and on your own in order to get a sense of what you really want.

Try a New Method of Dating

There are so many ways to meet new people, so after your “single time” is over, try a method you haven’t used before. There are set ups, online dating, speed dating, lunch dating… and each one can introduce you to someone you wouldn’t have met before. Try a new method to go along with your new attitude. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet someone perfect for you who you normally wouldn’t have thought twice about before. Staying single should give you a helpful perspective so you can find someone that will be good to you and for you.