For most single Mothers, the mere suggestion of dating is enough to breed panic. How do you find the time? How do you put yourself out there again? However, with the right approach, dating as a single mother is more than doable.
Being ready
Though it might seem obvious, without doubt the first step to dating again is making sure that you’re ready. It can be all too tempting to launch yourself back into the relationship scene a little too soon after a divorce or breakup. When you’re considering dating again, be honest and ask yourself if you’re emotionally in a place to handle it.
Find the time
When you’re madly making school lunches, working and keeping the house in order, merely finding the time to brush your hair is cause for elation. How on earth do you find the time to look on a dating site? If dating is something you want back in your life then you must prioritize it. Plan your dating nights as much in advance as possible. Balance your life in such a way that you can fit dating in without it just being an extra stress you don’t need.
Be honest with yourself and him
Make sure you have clear ideas about what you want out of a dating situation. Do you just want a friend and companion or are you looking for full commitment? These goals need to be clear in your mind so you can find someone who is on the same page. It’s essential that you’re honest about your situation and what you want in the early stages of dating. Getting further down the track with someone only to find being with a single mother isn’t something they want is emotional upheaval you just don’t need.
Go slow
Rushing into things is an all too common mistake for single mothers. If you find someone that you want to get serious with, take your time. Introduce them into your lives slowly and make sure you’re ready for each new step. It’s easy to rush into something but ten times harder to go backwards.
Introducing your partner to your children
As a mother, you will of course know the best way to approach the fact that you’re dating with your children. It’s a case by case situation and depends on you, the child and their age. However, do make sure you introduce your new special someone slowly. Suddenly coming home with a man on your arm will cause unrest for all involved. Tell your children in stages. Mention that you’re ready to date, then seeing someone, then starting to care for someone and so on. That way you’ll reduce the shock they and you might feel at the unknown.
Take the leap
Above all, don’t let being daunted get the better of you. It’s perfectly normal to feel scared at the idea of dating again. Why not try a singles night and take a single friend along for support? Choose the right one for you to help ease yourself back into the dating scene.