By: Cassie Wingfield, Marketing Coordinator, SPARC Hope.
Navigating the dating scene as a single parent can be both an exciting and daunting experience. It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey and that there are plenty of other single parents out there who are in the same boat. I know, because I am in that boat as well. Here are a few things I am learning while trying to navigate the dating scene:
Take your time.
Don’t jump into a relationship too quickly. It can be tempting to find someone to fill the void of a previous relationship, but it’s important to take your time and find someone who is genuinely compatible with you and your lifestyle. You don’t need to change your situation to fit anyone else’s. Take your time and find someone who fits and works for you.
Be honest, set boundaries.
When it comes to dating as a single parent, it’s important to be upfront about your circumstances and what it is that you are looking for in a relationship. Me, personally, I don’t have a lot of free time. As a working single mom, I might get one free night a week. If I am upfront about this from the beginning, I can avoid getting involved with someone who “needs” more of my time. My daughter is always going to be my first priority, and I don’t want to waste any of my (extremely limited) free time, with someone who doesn’t understand that.
Find a support system.
Having a strong support system of family and friends can help you navigate the dating scene. They can provide advice and let’s be honest, babysitting. The fact of the matter is, as single parents, we don’t get as much free time. Having a support system to give you a break every now and then, be it for dating or not, is important.
Utilize online dating.
I hate this one. I feel like online dating has ruined the dating scene, BUT it does have a few advantaged. With so many online dating platforms, you can find someone who is compatible with your lifestyle and your children. It is a great way to meet people. Before trying online dating I would wonder why I couldn’t meet someone… Probably because I never went anywhere. I work in a small office, and I hang out with my kid at home, where did I expect to meet anyone? Online dating can help you meet people that live closer to you, share the same interests or beliefs. It’s worth a try.
Have fun!
Don’t forget to enjoy yourself! Dating should be an enjoyable experience and you should be open to exploring new possibilities.
Other ways to connect.
Dating is different for everyone, but hopefully these tips will help you in navigating the dating scene as a single parent. Please leave us a comment with any suggestions or tips you have found helpful while trying to navigate the dating scene.
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Check out some of our other blog posts here, for tips and tricks for single parents, budget hacks, inspiration and more information about what we do here at SPARC Hope.