When did you start dating again? (single mums)

[MaxwellCat]

More aimed at single mums, when did you feel ready to date again? How did you know you was ready? I've been single for 6 years after my ex left (no dating / men at all) and every now and then I think it would be nice to meet someone but at the same time I don't know if I can be bothered it will take a lot of effort to date someone as I don't get regular time off like other single parents so would need a lot of organising, but I often get lonely and miss company and obviously intimacy but I wouldn't be up for a friends with benefits situation. So when did you decide to date again? (Other single mums i know haven't been single for half as long and most met someone within a year 18m so starting to feel a bit odd being single so long)

I've been single three and a half years, since ex husband walked out on me and our small DC.

I haven't really dated. I went out with a couple of guys but tbh it just seemed more hassle than it's worth. Now I just don't feel like bothering at all. I get lonely sometimes but then remember what a nightmare most men are and don't feel lonely anymore. I also don't want disappointing dating experiences dragging down my MH. I feel like I need to keep as mentally healthy as possible for my DC.

I know it is hard being a single mum. There's nothing wrong with wanting to find someone. Go for it if that's what you want to do. There's no timeline or right or wrong answer.

I'm a solo parent by choice (had my child using a sperm donor) so have always been a single parent in the parenting respect.

I have mainly done coffee dates on my lunchtime for about 45mins/1 HR, so no inconvenience caused in the greater scheme of things - screening potential men has been very valuable as surprise surprise most men though mainly nice and polite simply weren't worth any more time or effort (and certainly not meeting my child!).

I also agree with @ChrisTrepidation that it is far more important to keep emotionally and mentally stable than it would be maintaining a romantic relationship.

I enjoy meeting new people and having that adult time but I haven't connected with anyone that has blown me away (and even then, it's questionable whether I'd pursue a proper romantic relationship).