When you’re a single parent, simply finding the right emotional and mental space to even think about dating can feel impossible. Especially if you’ve had your heart broken before, right? Thus, it’s incredibly disheartening to muster the courage to “get out there,” only for it to turn into an absolute disaster.
A collection of moms have bravely shared their unsettling experiences of navigating the dating scene as single parents. And let’s be honest, dating during a global pandemic is hardly ideal for anyone. There are so many concerns to juggle — will your kids dislike the person you’re seeing? Will that person feel the same about your kids (if they do, it’s a hard pass)? Are you truly ready to be intimate with someone new? What if they’re not good in bed? What if you’re not?
- “I should have listened to my son when he warned me about my new boyfriend. If your child doesn’t like the person you’re dating, it’s time to reconsider.” — Confession #25818838
- “I’m moving in with my boyfriend, but my adult daughter is not thrilled about it. Dating doesn’t get easier with grown kids.” — Confession #25818543
- “Dating another man addicted to porn is just great… not!” — Confession #25816438
- “I thought he was okay with just dating, but now he’s stalking me. I just want him to leave me alone.” — Confession #25815701
Finding out that someone you’re dating is a complete creep after they already have your phone number and know your address? That scenario is every parent’s nightmare. If you live alone, it’s unsettling enough, but with kids involved? Just imagine.
Essentially, you have to be a full-time detective to navigate dating today.
- “I should have explored dating women when I had the chance. I regret not trying it because I was scared of judgment.” — Confession #25815498
- “Now, I always dig deep to see if the guy has issues with mental health, violence, or any illegal activities. If he does, I drop him immediately.” — Confession #25814888
- “I’m dating a successful, attractive man, but he won’t commit because I have kids. Ugh.” — Confession #25813490
- “My last date was a total disaster. This guy was controlling and started talking about marriage right away. No thanks!” — Confession #25813436
If your date tries to compete with your family for your attention, that’s a big red flag.
- “One guy I dated stripped down in my living room and started showing off. I laughed, and he ran out. Dude, that’s not how you win a woman’s heart!” — Confession #25812225
Online dating is full of pitfalls. “I can get a date every day, but they all have major issues. I’d rather hang out with my good male friend and see if we can spark something.” — Confession #25812136
- “As a young widow, I’m not interested in sex. I’d like a companion, but I’m done being someone’s guaranteed hookup.” — Confession #25811193
- “We have an amazing connection, but he’s still dating someone else. Break up with her already!” — Confession #25806656
- “I avoid dating by claiming I have a boyfriend in another state.” — Confession #25803082
Many mothers in the confessional realized their bisexuality after exiting heterosexual marriages. “I wish I could have a secret girlfriend. Sometimes I feel so pent up in this straight relationship.” — Confession #15552560
“I’m married, bisexual, and poly, but finding women to date is tough. My love for my husband doesn’t diminish my capacity to love another.” — Confession #12522990
Others are simply done with dating altogether. “I’m a separated mom about to be divorced, and I think a guy tried to catfish me. Why are men so awful? I’d rather stay single!” — Confession #25796445
- “Just when I thought I was ready to date again, I was ghosted. I’m done!” — Confession #25793505
- “My friends want me to be excited about dating post-divorce, but I’m in my 50s, tired, and honestly bitter. Who would want to date me?” — Confession #25791005
- “I’m so fed up with being ghosted. I’m investing my time in revamping my cooking instead. For me and my family!” — Confession #25787447
Dating is tough at any age, but it’s especially challenging for those who have been through it before. The road can be fraught with emotional landmines, and it’s ever-evolving with endless opportunities for disappointment.
Let these cautionary tales resonate with you!
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In summary, dating as a single parent can be daunting, filled with challenges and potential disasters. Many mothers have shared their stories of frustration and disappointment, which serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in seeking companionship while raising children.