Now that the Jewish holidays are behind us, and everyone’s back to their normal schedules, it’s a good time to be reminded of what we promised ourselves just a few weeks ago—to be even better as individuals than we were last year.

This is the time of year when everything’s new again. Simchat Torah marked the completion of the annual reading of the Torah—and the commitment to read it once again from the beginning. This notion of starting over is recognized often in Judaism, and it reminds us that so many things in our lives come in cycles.

Dealing with endings is often painful, but it’s important to remember that endings can also bring the promise of new beginnings.

If you’re a Jewish single in today’s dating scene, you probably know all about beginnings and endings. Maybe you’ve gone through a divorce, or the end of a relationship that you hoped would be “the one.” Or maybe you’re tired of always “beginning again,” because your dating life doesn’t seem to be going anywhere.

You probably think it’s easier to give up on finding a serious relationship. But more often than not, it only seems easier to think that way. Negative thoughts like this can lead to low self-esteem, which is never easy to live with.

So, how do you find the determination to start over again?

• First, remind yourself of what Judaism tells us—that endings are a part of life, and that starting over again builds resilience and confidence. You’ve probably heard the old saying “When G-d closes a door, He opens a window.” It may sound corny, but it’s true.
• Before you start over again, take time for serious reflection. If you haven’t had much luck with relationships, use this time to figure out why that is. You may think that you’re doing everything right, but here’s a hard truth: usually both parties are at least somewhat responsible when a relationship goes sour—or when a relationship doesn’t even get off the ground in the first place. Remember that introspection is a positive thing—and it’s also a Jewish thing. There’s always room for self-improvement.
• Take a look around you. Think of the couples you know. How many of them have known each other since childhood, have only dated each other, and have remained happily married? Probably very few. As for the rest, they’ve been where you are. They’ve known the pain of break-ups or even divorces. Yet they preservered. And guess what? They, too, have to muster the strength for endings and new beginnings. Jobs end. Children grow up and move away. Even if a couple has been together for a long time, they’ve probably faced relationship challenges at one time or another. They know all too well that nothing ever stays the same, and that adapting to change is important for their relationship.

So, as this new year is still in its fresh beginning stage, remember that there are always opportunities to begin again.

Elegant Introductions can help you do this. We are Jewish matchmakers, and yet we are so much more. We take the time to get to know you personally, and we can help make sure that, when it comes to dating, you are indeed ready to start over. Contact us today and let us help you get started on your new beginning.