IS DATING ON THE REBOUND A BAD IDEA?

Dear Coleen

I broke up with my long-term partner about three months ago after constant arguments and some minor cheating on both our parts – which involved flirting, kissing and messaging other people.

My dilemma is, I’ve met someone at work – a great guy, who’s lots of fun and seems like a real tonic after a serious 10-year relationship.

I just want to enjoy myself without being tied down, but is it a bad idea to get into a rebound relationship? I know it hasn’t been long since my break-up.

Coleen says Well, sometimes a rebound is what gets you to the next stage. It’s a bridge that takes you away from your previous relationship.

I think when you come out of a long relationship, your confidence is often low and your self-esteem needs a boost, so when someone else fancies you and wants to be with you, it’s very appealing.

I’ve had rebound relationships myself in those first few months, which helped to heal heartache and took my mind off things.

This new relationship might last or it might not, but if you’re single and you want to go out and have fun dating, then why not?

As long as you’re not leading this guy up the garden path and you are completely honest about where your head’s at right now, then I say go for it.