Hello everyone. I've been single for about exactly 7 months now after an 18 year relationship. Im not sure if im ready to date. I've been talking to a couple of old female friends via messenger and their compliments and input have been refreshing.

Some days I feel ready and optimistic to move on, others im down in the dumps and full of self doubt. I have no interest into rushing into anything. I still hold a small amount of resentment towards my ex and I'm really, really trying to let it go.

I know none of you can tell me if im ready to date or not. I'm just sick of being lonely and perhaps there is someone really special out there waiting to meet someone like me. Or maybe I can just make some friends. Im not even sure if I want sex at this point but I guess if the vibe is there, why fight it?

I'm not an extremely social or outgoing person so I tend to connect with a certain type of women. Maybe not the best type for my own good.

I know some of you took the plunge right away, and some have swore off women for a long time, or forever perhaps.

Am I over thinking this? I also want to mention that I had absolutely no desire to get back out there until the last couple of weeks. What my ex put me through really messed me up for awhile. I've been doing lots of self work the last couple of month and have been able to pull myself out of the fog for the most part.

I don't know what exactly I'm asking here, but if you can share some advice, input, or your experience here, I would appreciate it.