Jennifer Aniston was initially “cautious” when it came to starting something new — but she ultimately “just went for it” with Jim Curtis.

A source tells PEOPLE that The Morning Show star, 56, and her new boyfriend, 50, spent “months chatting and getting to know each other” at the start of the year.

“Jen really valued their friendship in the beginning of the year,” the insider says. “When it all took a turn to something more romantic, she was cautious at first. Now, she’s excited that she just went for it.”

The source adds that it “feels like kismet” and that the Friends alum “truly loves” Curtis. “He’s brought so many good things into her life,” adds the source.

Jim Curtis and Jennifer Aniston attend ELLE’s 2025 Women in Hollywood Celebration on Nov. 17, 2025.Michael Kovac/Getty

Aniston went Instagram official with Curtis on his milestone 50th birthday in early November, months after PEOPLE confirmed in July that they began dating.

Shortly after, the duo made their first public appearance together at ELLE‘s Women in Hollywood event on Nov. 17, as Aniston described Curtis as “quite extraordinary” in an interview with the outlet. “Hypnotism is one of the many things that he does,” she said. “He’s quite extraordinary and helps many, many people.”

She added, “He’s very special, very normal, and very kind, and wants to help people heal, move through their trauma and stagnation into clarity.”

The duo also made a notable public outing together on Nov. 29, as they bundled up during a holiday weekend in New York City. A source previously told PEOPLE that the couple celebrated Thanksgiving together, noting that Aniston was feeling “excited” about where things were going with the hypnotherapist.

“Jen celebrated Thanksgiving with Jim and her usual friend group. They always get together and cook, play games and have the best time,” the source said. “Jim fits right in with her friends. Everything in her life has come together and she’s excited about it.”

Aniston is also “comfortable letting people see a bit more of a relationship that feels truly grown-up and good,” the insider added at the time. “She knows people have always rooted for her to find love, and now that she’s in a happy place, she wants to share that.”

Among Aniston’s pals to give Curtis the stamp of approval was longtime friend Adam Sandler, who gave him a shoutout at the 2025 ELLE Women in Hollywood event.

“When we are around you, me and [wife] Jackie [Sandler] are so happy you and Jim found each other and are having the love affair you two deserve,” the actor said. “We love you, Jim.”