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Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you need help urgently or expert advice, please see our domestic violence webguide and/or relationships webguide. Many Mumsnetters experiencing domestic abuse have found this thread helpful: Listen up, everybody

Dating 2 men - I need to chose

85 replies

merrysunflower · 15/08/2025 00:04

I’m 37 and been single for 5 years. Over the years I’ve been on/off dating apps. I’ve never dated more than one person at a time. Once I arrange a first date, I just lose interest in the ones in the talking stage. I find I either lose interest in someone quickly, or I end it because I quite like them but they’re not emotional available. The last guy I dated I really liked but he was so hot and cold that I just walked away.

So sick of dating disasters I decided to just have fun, go on as many dates as possible and accept it’s probably going nowhere. Except; I’m now dating 2 people and I like them both. They’re so different, I like them in very different ways, but I can’t keep it up, I need to chose but I can’t.

Guy 1 is polar opposite to me, extrovert and I’m introverted. He’s very high energy, open, honest, wears his heart on his sleeve. I’m less open naturally but I have built trust, he recognises when he’s moving faster than me and adjusts. He’s a good dad, good job, own home. Actions match his words. Makes the time to see me around my children whilst still prioritising his, has them 50/50. So much fun to be around, we laugh and he brings out my more fun side.
I don’t know if I’d get tired of the high energy, I don’t know if he’ll calm as things get more serious.

Guy 2 is more on my level, calmer, more measured. A little more reserved. He doesn’t work, full time dad, no mum involved, big horrible back story and has had to make lots of sacrifices to be there for his daughter. Really difficult to find the time as both single parents but does make plans as much as possible. Cancelled a few times but I do understand, he has very limited support network. Has plans/ambitions for when daughter starts school. Less open emotionally and slower paced but not unavailable, I’d say cautious but not closed which is similar to me. I feel more secure in his presence but more anxious when away, more so because of all the barriers than how he is.

both have similar amounts of pros and cons. I just don’t know how to choose. Physically attracted to both but I’m holding back as I don’t want to go further with both at the same time. I couldn’t handle that.

how do I chose

OP posts:
ByQuaintAzureWasp · 16/08/2025 07:59

I could/would not b3 with anyone who doesn't work ... unless super wealthy

Nosdacariad · 16/08/2025 08:08

eone · 15/08/2025 22:37

Number 1.
He has a job, financially stable, brings joy to your life and will be easier to organise a date, and spend some time together. His good energy is a huge plus. Does he have an okay relationship with mum of his children?

Number 2 would be a no go for me. No judgment that he is bringing a child on his own and temporarily doesn't work, but you will be subsidising him financially. Finding time for dates will also be a mission impossible. His life is much more complicated and troubled, you will be sharing all this with him. His ex abandoning child will bring many complications in behaviour of this child later down the line. It will affect you and your children. Visit step parenting board for some examples of that. It will take longer to develop relationship with him and to take it to the next level. What's often seen on here is men with children in similar situations push to move in together quickly. Life is complicated enough as it is. Why don't he sort his life first by at least getting a stable job before he starts dating. I would be cautious about future 'various short term jobs' he has lined up. These may never happen and he is telling you he isn't even planning on having a proper job and a stability. Yes, you can work and bring children on your own.

Edited

Echoing this. Single mums have jobs, even when our children are under school age.

I would worry about chap number two's big back story and how much of that is definitely true.

Do HIS words match his actions?

ChristmasFluff · 16/08/2025 08:49

Number one, because number two is not in a position to have an equal relationship with you. Probably not to have a relationship with anyone. Not necessarily his fault, but just the way it is.

People generally realise that however much they might want a horse, they don't have the time, energy or finances to have one. Yet when it comes to a relationship, they feel differently, even though the same restrictions apply.

Nosdacariad · 16/08/2025 09:00

ChristmasFluff · 16/08/2025 08:49

Number one, because number two is not in a position to have an equal relationship with you. Probably not to have a relationship with anyone. Not necessarily his fault, but just the way it is.

People generally realise that however much they might want a horse, they don't have the time, energy or finances to have one. Yet when it comes to a relationship, they feel differently, even though the same restrictions apply.

I love this so much!

Pyjamatimenow · 16/08/2025 09:02

Guy 2 would be a next for me immediately for not having a job and cancelling. Both no nos

Pinkissmart · 16/08/2025 09:06

I'd wonder why #2 feels it's appropriate to be dating right now?
Personally I think it's a bit of a red flag that someone's life is in shambles and they want to date. I'd wonder if they wanted emotional support or a co -parent

intherough · 16/08/2025 10:06

Second guy doesn’t have a job? Are your standards that low that you even have to ask this question. SMH

AmIEnough · 20/08/2025 07:58

If you reread your OP I think you’ve answered your own question. The way you describe the first guy is so much more positive than the way you’ve described the second guy even though you’ve been very nice about him. The way it reads to me, it almost feels as if you feel sorry for the second guy And so would feel guilty at letting him go but I think in the long run it would be a mistake to stick with the second guy because in spite of being lovely he has a lot of baggage, less time and very importantly, no job! I think you need to go with the first guy Best of luck

AnotherDayAnotherDog · 20/08/2025 08:13

You don’t ‘need’ to choose. If you wanted a sexual relationship with either of them, you’d know by now. And, you hardly know either of them as people after a few dates.

Onoopie · 20/08/2025 16:10

1 without question.

And even if 2 was more serious than 1, I wouldn't consider anything long-term with him.

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