Joan had dated Bill for two years, and they had become very serious. So serious that they began talking about marriage, a family, and their future together. It was a shock when one day out of the blue, Bill announced that he was finished with their relationship and had found someone else he would rather be with. Truly, Joan had not seen this coming, and was heart-broken. She didn't think she would ever date again.

Many people suffer serious hurts in relationships, and for a time they are unable to even consider dating again. If this is you, be assured that it is good to take a short break after being in a serious relationship to allow yourself time to heal. However, eventually you will have to move past your hurt, and begin to date again. Online dating is a great, non-threatening way to begin. Read www.Christian-online-dating-guide.com for lots of tips and helpful hints.

If you meet a wonderful person, you may begin to question whether it is worth the risk to enter into a serious relationship with him/her. Are you ready for another serious relationship? Here are three things to ask yourself:

1. Am I confident in who I am? Don't let another person's shortcomings ruin your self-image. Just because they have moved on, doesn't necessarily mean bad things about you. Be confident in yourself, your goals, your dreams, and your hopes for the future.

2. Are there things I can do to improve my relationships? Yes, be confident in who you are, but also look for ways you can improve your relationships. Analyze your past relationships for mistakes you could have made. Were you too pushy? Were you a bit smothering? If possible, talk to a counselor or trusted friend and get their perspective.

3. Do you feel that this person is worth beginning a relationship with? Is this person someone you could see yourself with long-term? Write down some of the qualities you are looking for in a potential life-partner. Nobody is perfect, but do you see at least some of these qualities in this person?

Remember, relationships may have their ups and downs, but there is nothing better than being with the love of your life. Don't let your fear of another bad relationship hold you back!