Fed up with being single - Need a kick up the bum, or cheering up!

[VelvetB]

Hi everyone
I'm a bit of a serial lurker, but having a down day and could do with some words of wisdom.
Basically I'm so fed up of being on my own after a string of crap relationships. I've been separated from my ex husband for 2 years, divorced for 1. Since then I've had 2 shortish relationships but they haven't turned into anything. Last guy was totally into me, took me away etc and then within the space of 24 hours told me it just didn't feel right.
I have a 6 year old son, who is lovely and I know I should count myself lucky. I have a great supportive family and friends but I feel like I'm ready for a relationship now and just miss that closeness. I've tried internet dating but it just doesn't seem to work for me. I don't feel like I can talk about it anyone in real life as they all have their own problems and. I don't want to drag them down with mine.
I know I must sound like I'm wallowing but just so fed up, any cheery stories or just to be grounded with some kind words would be much appreciated!
Velvet xx

There are a few threads around at the moment along similar lines.

I'm not sure if I have any words of wisdom. I am kind of in the same boat and went through that 'down' phase not so long ago. Is there one friend who would listen? i can empathise with that aspect too. You can vent here!

I think most people seem to be in agree,ment when they say internet dating is hard wor. Do you live somewhere busy where you could pick up a new class etc. I know these are the usual answers but I think taking the focus off being introspective helps. Or at least it did me.

I'm sure others with better ideas will be along :)

I sympathise Velvet. I think the down phase is normal and just has to be worked through. I try to remind myself if I feel a bit lonely that the down has got to lead to an up phase and nothing stays the same way forever. OD seems so artificial and such hard work. I've recently joined a Meet Up group in my local area. It's not a singles thing just a way of making new friends. There is all sorts of activities to join ... Walks, pub lunches, cinema trips. It's a bit scary the first time walking in a pub to meet a group for the first time but the good thing is you only have to do it once and often there are others who are new too. Maybe give it a go just to make friends as you never know what that will lead to. Google it and see if there are groups near you maybe? So far I have been to a comedy evening, pub lunch and a meditation group and just going along has given me a boost. Good luck.

Thanks guys, I'll definitely give the meet up groups a try. I'm naturally quite shy so it'd probably be good for me anyway!
Velvet xx

Meetup is definitely the way to go!