So sick of dating

[BlondeWaves]

I'm 31. Been dating for the past 4 years. Haven't met anyone I wanted to have a relationship with. Tried meeting people in person at clubs. Tried online dating. Tried speed dating. Just can't get anything to stick. I'm nearly 32, would love to have more kids (I have one), would love that intimacy that I miss so badly. I just can't seem to meet anyone. Really hard when you have a reception age child too. Is there hope for me? Are there decent men out there who are willing to date a lone parent? This always seem to be an issue but there's sod all I can do about it. My son is such a huge part of my life and men seem to back off when they realise I don't get every other weekend to myself and can't spontaneously go away for the weekend. Feeling really down and lonely and unlovable. Never used to be like this.

I’m not saying that’s my opinion 🤦🏻 I said lots of people have the opinion that single parents shouldn’t date again and yes apparently statistics back up that children are at biggest risk from unrelated males and this is used as a reason why single parents shouldn’t date. Did I say anywhere it’s my opinion? Op is asking if people are interested in dating a lone parent and I’ve answered that many people on MN advise against dating single parents / single parents dating and that’s maybe why she’s coming across loads of Men put off by the fact she is a lone parent as there are lots of negative attitudes towards single parents dating as I have seen on here.

Dating with a view to a long term relationship and kids can feel pretty disheartening rather than fun simply because you're not in it to enjoy the dates and possibilities, you do have an outcome in mind but have to find the right person which can take time. Take breaks when you feel fatigued, don't spend ages chatting first and try a hobby club if you can. I didn't meet my bf there but really enjoyed going to a walking club and there were loads of single people joining for that reason.

Also I echo the advice to try and tailor your matches to single dads. Ones nearby preferably so you don't have to worry about logistics. They'll understand your limitations re availability and your commitments.

Oh OP, I'm in the same boat. DS is 5, the sperm donor is not interested in giving me time to myself and only have my parents and a few friends to help me out. The dating apps are on the whole shite to put it nicely. Went on two dates with a guy, was lovely and we got on well. Until he asked me to lend him £80 for a night out!! Apps have all been deleted and I just don't know where to go from here 😞