A little less than a week ago my wife let me know she will be pursuing divorce. This was after a year and a half of trying. I wasn't perfect, she cheated on me twice, it's all been extremely difficult.

I read the stickied post about dating immediately after separation. It's a great post and I really do understand the points it's making. Yet, I still get this want for validation from a female. It's shockingly not about sex. It's almost like I just want that hole partially filled. I want someone to distract me, someone to talk to that isn't one of the boys. I crave that validation that I am good enough for someone else, that someone else would still be interested in me.

I feel pretty lost and unsure of how to proceed. Do other divorced men deal with this kind of wants immediately? It's like a battle everyday for me. I should know better but I can't stop thinking about that validation. Also oddly enough I still don't want to hurt her either..

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Edit - Thank you to those that commented. I'm really not exactly an extrovert and even socializing here gives me some anxiety. I appreciate the advice and especially how direct the advice was. I'm going to continue going to the gym and really focus on not relying on anyone but myself for happiness. Thank you all again!