Dating is never a big issue, rightly so for individuals who do not have kids. Single mothers dating seem to get a negative reputation because people do not understand it or have a pre-mediated prejudice about it. It is not always the dating that is the concern, but the children involvement which is prime.
There are some mothers who can handle dating quite well and balance everything out. Other mothers seem to only be able to focus on one part of their lives or the other. For example, some single mothers have a hard time focusing on their children when they are “googley-eyed” over a certain male individual.
What’s the big deal?
Well, dating is a big deal because it takes so much time, energy and effort. There is hardly a relationship out there that does not require all of these. When other parents see you dating, they automatically start assuming things, but you shouldn’t let their viewpoint concern you. As long as you understand the complications of dating and children, then you should have it under control. It’s also important for your significant other to realize that your children have to come first.
Putting Your Children’s Needs First
When you are in a new relationship it’s easy to forget why you became a single mom to start with. Here are some tips to keep you in check with your feelings:
- Get an accountability partner.
- Keep the communication line open.
- Ask for help from friends and family members.
- Have a B plan in place.Just keep in mind that when you are dating someone, your children do not have to know every move you are making. When the relationship starts getting more serious, then it might be okay to tell your kids about the new person in your life. Dating a new person is not the end of the world and many times it’s a new beginning; however, feelings and emotions are a large part of the process. Put your kids first and most certainly the right person will come into your life sooner or later.
So you can see, it’s not controversy that surrounds dating as a single mother, it’s making sure you have your priorities straight.