We are living in the times where separation is not uncommon, even if people have kids. Don't let single mom dating scare you because there are many more single people with children out there. Whether you have got divorced recently or you want to start dating again after some time of solitude, it doesn't matter. Dating as a single mom is not easy, it's a fact. That's why I have eight useful pieces of advice for you. Don't let fear prevent you from pursuing your true soulmate, even if you have children. Let's talk more about tips on single moms dating.
1. Start after you are ready emotionally
You really have to be emotionally stable in order to find the right partner. If you jump into a relationship and you're not ready for it, it's bound to fail. You will lose much precious time, and feel even more agitated. Don't think that having a partner is something you can't live without. Being single for some time is okay. People usually believe that they have no worth if they don't have a partner, but that's far from the truth. Don't look for a partner if you're not ready to commit yourself to another person completely. It's better to be alone for some time than to constantly quarrel with your partners.
2. Learn to be happy on your own first
If you are happy even when you are single, then it is great. But if you're not, and you desperately yearn for a partner, you will end up disappointed. Never look for "your other half", just because you think it will make you happy. When you feel like you are whole as a person, you will find a similar man. It always happens like that: we run into similar people. Meditate, practice mindfulness, and spend more time with your friends. When you find your own happiness, you will be able to find a partner who is the same.
3. Don't make rash decisions
Getting back in dating after some time can lead to rash decisions, and you may regret them badly afterward. Everything will seem so exciting in the beginning, but you have to be cautious. Don't rush anywhere, because everything will fall into place on its own. Don't go out too much if you don't feel like it, and don't hook up with people you see no future with. Of course, it depends on your goal. If you want to have fun, then it's completely fine. But don't expect a stable relationship if you're looking for it in the wrong place. Even if you feel lonely, don't give a chance to people who obviously aren't serious about your relationship. It might hurt you.
4. Don't be too exclusive
Dating more than one man is not considered bad. Actually, it will improve your chance of finding a new partner. Don't think that dating many people and trying to get to know them better is nothing you should be concerned about. Not making rash decisions doesn't mean that you should be too picky. Meet as many people as you want. You can do it online as well.
5. Release the feeling of guilt
Don't feel bad because you're a single mom. It's normal if you feel guilty, but there's no rational reason for that. Parting ways is sometimes all people can do. The worst thing that can actually happen to you is staying with the wrong person for the rest of your life. Therefore, you have no reason to experience guilt. Also, it's much better for your child not to be a part of an unhappy family. Be open to new people, and be there for your child as much as you can.
6. Communicate with your kid before you date
Your child's reaction to your decision usually depends on their age. It will probably be harder to explain to them that they will have a new dad one day. Teenagers are more rebellious. But this shouldn't worry you. All you have to do is to talk with your child honestly about dating another man. Nobody wants to see their mother unhappy, and just tell your children that you need to feel more love. Tell them that you will only date men who will get along with them (and you really should). After some time, your child will understand you.
7. Keep your life in balance
As a single mom, you've probably got used to taking care of things alone. Dating someone new can change your basic routines. You shouldn't devote all your time to him and neglect everything else. Your own life and your kid should be your top priority, even if you're on cloud nine. It's okay to be in love, but don't devote yourself too much until you are completely sure that the man you're dating is the one. Truth be told, it's difficult to find a suitable partner, especially if you're older, and not many people deserve to be included in your daily schedule.
8. Have confidence and believe in yourself
Single moms are usually afraid that they will scare people away if they tell them about their child. It's not true. There are so many men that will be really happy to spend time with your kid. We are all different, so don't assume that you will be single for the rest of your life just because you have a failed relationship behind you. And there is one more thing. If someone is really in love with you and finds you adorable, they won't have a problem with you being a single mom.
Summary
Being a single mom isn't easy due to many reasons. If you want to be in a happy relationship again, I completely support you. Dating as a single mom can go a lot smoother than you think, so do not worry. That's why you should keep your head up, learn to love yourself, and get ready for a new relationship.