Most people go through a long period of mourning after long-term relationships end. During this time they tend to close themselves off from friends, family, and the opposite sex. Unfortunately these are the times when people need that type of feedback and positive interaction with others most.

You'll hear a lot of mixed opinions about whether or not dating someone new is the way to go when what you really want is to get your ex back. However, there are powerful arguments on both sides of the coin to consider before you make up your mind one way or another.

Pros of Dating Someone New After a Breakup

Even if you want to get your ex back after a breakup there is no reason you should deprive yourself of the company of the opposite sex. Dating is not falling in love, getting marriage, or mapping out a long-term relationship. If you take one date at a time there is little harm to be had from the practice. There are a few benefits to consider too.

When your ex hears that you're dating someone new he or she is likely to take a nice long look and see you (or at least try to) through the eyes of the new person you're dating. Sometimes this is what it will take to make your ex realize how much has really been lost and want to reach out and gauge the possibility of getting back together.

The other major benefit to consider is that it gives you a chance to get out there and see what other members of the opposite sex are like. Sometimes you'll discover that you've placed your ex up on this pedestal where he or she doesn't really belong because of how things ended. Other times you'll realize your ex is a really great guy or girl. At the very least you'll have other experiences with which to compare your relationship.

Cons of Dating Someone New After a Breakup

There is one major downside that is rarely mentioned when it comes to dating someone new after a breakup with the intention of getting your ex back. The major flaw in this plan is that someone else might get hurt in the process if he or she isn't aware of your intentions from the very beginning.

The last thing you want to do is put someone through what you've just gone through yourself. Make sure your intentions are clear before you start dating someone hoping to get your ex back as a result.

There's another potential downside to your efforts to get your ex back that comes from dating someone new. You just might find that it works on your ex but that you've fallen for someone new and wonderful in the process.