How long do you wait? employment, money and dating

[Cheetarah]

I spent several years as a student feeling I shouldn't see anyone seriously because once out of university I couldn't be sure I was able to hold down a job long term or earn a steady wage. I hoped I would, but couldn't guarantee it and so how could I contribute financially to a household or even to nights out? I didn't want to rely on anyone, I've done that before and it didn't work out. Also, I didn't want anyone to have to be my carer, we have to be equal or not at all.

I graduated from my course, started work and lo and behold, lost it in four months. While I was still working I gained the confidence to come out of myself and meet new people, flirt a little and before long I met someone intelligent, caring and understanding. We got on like a house on fire and stayed together for just under a year but we realised we'd become friends rather than lovers and that was all we were ever going to be.

I'd previously promised myself that from now on I'd always consider myself worthy of love and would never avoid relationships again, but now with my unemployed status I get nervous about even introducing myself when that question comes up 'what do you do?'

I'm likely to get on an unpaid work placement at the local civic office soon, but until I know for sure I don't know if it's a good idea to start seeing anyone again. I want to though because of missing so many years and wanting to learn and grow. I do want to settle down one day, the only issue in the world shouldn't be work. What do you think?