"Seriously, I admire you for taking this step. It's so much harder for moms to find someone new—you're basically asking a guy to take on someone else's child. Most men run the other way," a friend told me when my daughter and I moved back in with my parents. I had just become single again and wasn't even thinking about dating, much less needing advice. That comment was far from encouraging...
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Over time, I realized that friend's advice was misguided. Motherhood became my superpower in dating: I could spot incompatible men instantly. The right partner for my daughter had to be truly reliable. I turned down lavish offers like paid trips to London or romantic beach walks with strangers. How could I teach my daughter self-respect if I settled? Flashy displays don't make a man better—give me a genuine guy with character any day.
My daughter never knew about my dating mishaps, as I kept them private. But it gave me confidence that my choices aligned with my values—no regrets or embarrassments. Reflecting on it, it was an invaluable lesson in reading people. These aren't amateur tips; they're hard-won wisdom from my journey. Today, I'll share seven dating tips to give you the edge I wish I'd had sooner. And most importantly, enjoy the process when you're ready!
Read also: Dating as a single mom on Tinder!
As a busy mom, you can't afford wasted time on dates with strangers. Start with chats or apps. Red flags include requests for explicit photos, invites to their home, flakiness, or social profiles filled with other women. A quick background check is smart—your time is precious, so set high standards.
Nothing kills the vibe like feeling monitored before you're even exclusive. If he demands constant updates on your whereabouts, walk away immediately. Trust your sharpened maternal instincts—if something feels off, it probably is. Prevention beats heartache every time.
This one's personal, but I'd rather build a real connection than be wooed by extravagance. Trips to the Eiffel Tower, designer bags, or luxury watches won't sustain a relationship. You want a kind, authentic partner—no need for bribes to prove his worth.
Why? It signals independence, keeps things balanced (some men feel entitled after footing the bill), and surprises positively. Most women don't split costs early on, per my single friends, making this a fresh approach.
From an evolutionary angle, men often pursue conquests quickly, while women invest more thoughtfully. Delaying intimacy builds desire and respect. Sure, some passionate nights lead to lasting love, but it's the exception—patience pays off.
This could just be a new friendship. No instant spark needed; every date is a lesson. Stay relaxed—you're wonderful, and the right one will see it. Low expectations reduce nerves and let you enjoy the moment. Worst case? Text a friend for a rescue mission with a wink.
Obvious to many, but not all suitors. Proposals like "Let's do something fun as a trio?" were instant deal-breakers—they prioritized their convenience over my child's well-being. Introduce kids only when you're certain.
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