When someone like Dakota Johnson—fresh off the end of an engagement with Chris Martin—takes her time, catches her breath, and then starts tentatively dating again, we’re reminded that healing isn’t a straight line. According to an article in ELLE, Dakota is “in a great place” following the breakup, and is slowly dipping her toes back into the dating pool

But what does that mean for the rest of us? Whether you’re recovering from a long-term relationship, an engagement, or just a deeply intense chapter of your life, the idea of getting back out there can feel like stepping blindfolded into deep water.

Why it’s so hard

• When you’ve been with someone for a long time, your identity, habits, and expectations shift together. Coming out of that means re-discovering who you are on your own.

• The fear of making the same mistakes, getting hurt again, or “wasting” time can be real and heavy.

• Society sometimes tells us we should just be fine, move on, or “get over it” — but healing takes time, and that’s okay.

• And yet… there can also come a point where staying stuck feels worse than the risk of trying new things.

Why sometimes a good rebound date is what you need

Here’s where the “rebound” gets a little misunderstood. It’s not about forcing yourself into something half-hearted or full of regret. It’s about giving yourself permission to feel alive again. To remind yourself that you can laugh, flirt, connect, maybe even spark something unexpected. Because:

• It can rebuild confidence. Taking that step—saying yes to a date, listening with curiosity, smiling a little—can re-wake parts of you that felt dormant.

• It can clear your head. A fun, low-stakes outing can help you realize what you want now, versus what you used to settle for.

• It can remind you of your value. Someone fun, interesting, kind paying attention to you? That’s a powerful balm after the “we” era.

• And importantly: It can just be fun. Sometimes you don’t have to put a big label on it. You just show up, enjoy the moment, and come back to life.

How to do a rebound in a healthy, empowered way

Here are a few spicy-casual, fun tone tips (because… OBC style):

• Step out only when you feel ready, not because someone told you to. The rewind button for your feelings? Not available.

• Go for something simple: coffee, boardwalk walk, casual taco + margarita-free (we know you like spicy). Low pressure, high fun.

• Don’t expect “the one” itinerary right away. Think “the better than TV show date” and leave space for surprises.

• Keep wise boundaries: you’re not obligated to commit, clarify, or explain yourself. You’re allowed to enjoy the night and then decide what you want next.

• After the date: check in with yourself. “Did I feel lighter? Did I feel drained?” Use it as data.

• Most importantly: Remember this is your chapter. It’s not about replacing, competing or forgetting. It’s about discovering what you want next.

TL;DR

If you’re coming out of Something Big—an engagement, a serious relationship, an identity-shift—you might feel like the world expects you to skip right into The Next Big Love. But sometimes the magic starts with a small spark. A rebound date doesn’t have to be a mistake.

Ready to find your own “post-Coldplay fling”? Join the community at OBC and meet like-minded singles who are ready for a little fun, a little path-reset, and maybe something unexpectedly awesome. Jump back in. Your next chapter’s waiting.