Stella is ready to get her groove back! by Miss Tee

As a single parent, dating can be a little scary, especially if you're just beginning to put yourself "out there." With everyday life issues, work, bills, family, friends and being a single mother etc… With all of that to do, who has time to even think about dating someone? I started to wonder was I the only single mother out here who felt this way? Now days there is so many rules and regulations to dating, and from a single parent stand point, this brings on a whole other set of rules.



Have you ever dated someone and it started off great and you found yourself really enjoying this time with this person. As time goes by your learning more and more about this person, but now you’re wondering if you should introduce your children to this person? How soon is too soon? There is nobody that can tell you when it’s a good time to include your kids in your new relationship. However speaking from past experience I can say, the more you get to know this person and build a foundation together and you do not included the kids, this could later lead to some serious issues in your relationship. Find out below about a great acronym "CHECK" this can help, also very soon I will have story about this topic “stay tune”!


Don’t let being a single parent stop you from finding someone special, it’s now time for you to step outside your comfort zone and take a leap of faith and enjoy yourself!



Below are some of the following tips to help you adjust your expectations and will prepare you to re-enter the dating world. Email me or leave a comment to let me know what you think?



 

Consider Why Dating is Important to You

Before you being dating, online or otherwise, give some serious thought to why you want to be in a dating relationship in the first place. Are you hoping for companionship, fun, or validation? Knowing what you're looking for from the outset can help you avoid some of the most common relationship mistakes.

 

Talk With Your Kids About Your Desire to Date

Being open with your children about your desire to date will make the transition easier for all of you. It's important to remember, too, that your kids may strongly resist the idea of sharing you or giving up hope that you'll reunite with your ex, so be extra sensitive to their feelings and concerns as you prepare them for the reality that you'll soon begin dating.

 

Decide How You're Going to "Put Yourself Out There"

There are many ways re-enter the dating world, from online dating to asking someone out on your own. Remember, too, that not every date has to be an evening event. It's fine to shart with something more casual like meeting for lunch or a quick drink after work.

 

Use the Acronym "CHECK" to Make Wise Dating Choices

Whether you're looking through online dating profiles or being introduced to the friend of a friend, it's important to know what you're looking for. The acronym "CHECK" can help. The letters stand for Character, Healthy relationships, Easy to be around, Children, and Kindness.

Know What Your Personal Deal Breakers Are

It's crucial that you know from the very beginning what you will tolerate in a dating relationship and what you will not. These common "deal breakers" can help you avoid heartache down the road and more quickly find satisfaction in your dating relationships.

 

Plan Ahead for Physical Intimacy

Finally, decisions about birth control and physical intimacy need to be made up front. In addition, consider sharing your choices with a trusted friend who will help you be accountable to your decisions, as well.

 

Decide Whether to Introduce Dates to Your Children

You may find that introducing dates as "friends" makes this issue easier for your children, but it's important to talk with each date ahead of time about your plans, so that they'll know why you may seem more formal with them in front of your children. Alternatively, wait until things become more serious before introducing your children at all.