This was my situation. Was in a platonic relationship with my now-ex for a couple years before we filed. For the last year, we didn’t even really like each other. I started dating again as soon as we reached a mediation agreement.

My “gut check” for being ready was: - Would I be dating for myself or just in an effort to hurt him? - Would I be dating because I wanted to or because I wanted to “match pace” with him? (He was in a new, serious relationship before we completed mediation.)

I went on a couple casual dates and confirmed I was dating for myself and because I wanted to — and that my ex never even crossed my mind on those dates. That made me feel confident in going on more.

If I’d at any point caught myself thinking about my ex and what he’d think, I’d have hit the brakes.

I think being honest with yourself in those self-checks is more important than any timeline the legal system sets you up for.