Is your girlfriend a single mom? Here are a few rules that will make your relationship better and more understanding.
7 Rules For Dating A Single Mom
#1. Be Patient
Single mothers are often stressed and tired. They may feel guilty about spending time with you and not with their children. It may take some time for them to feel okay about dating again or to warm up to you.
They will want to be cautious about who they let in their life because they want to be a good example for their children. She also won’t introduce you to her children right away. She will want to make sure your relationship will last before making a big change in her children’s lives.
#2. Be Understanding & Supportive
As I said single moms are often worn out. It is hard balancing being a mom with work and doing it all on her own! It is good to help her. But at the same time you have to walk a fine line.
You don’t want her to feel like you think she isn’t doing a good job. A new mother will be even more sensitive to these things. So proceed with caution.
#3. But We Don’t Need To Be Rescued
It is great to help but don’t try to take over. Don’t try to replace their dad. If their dad is still in the picture try to be respectful. Even if the father is not in the picture, this doesn’t mean that she needs or wants you to swoop in and take over. She has made it by herself this long so let her come to you and ask you for help.
Just be there for her and listen. Even if she is complaining about her stress and being tired don’t try to fix things for her unless she asks. Men often want to take care of things for their girlfriends and this is not a bad thing.
However it can leave the woman feeling inadequate. Just be careful what you say and what you do. If you really want to help with something, ask her first so she feels respected and included, after all it is her world.
#4. But We Can Use The Help!
It is the little things that count sometimes! It is nice to help in little ways – make her dinner or take out the garbage. As long as you are not trying to control her but you sincerely want to help she will appreciate it. Single mothers appreciate men who step up and take on responsibilities.
#5. Please Don’t Bother With Games
Single moms have enough to worry about without having to figure out manipulation tactics or if you really like her. Honesty goes a long way. We have limited time so please respect that.
Also the likelihood is that she has seen this game before. The act will wear thin quickly. So just be honest and sincere. She will appreciate it believe me.
#6. The Dreaded Ex and Father
If you are with a newly single mother and the ex is still around than you may want to talk to her about their relationship. It is understandable to be jealous especially when the ex is still hanging around and you may have to interact with him when he comes to see the kids.
So make sure there are no lingering feelings and no reason for you to be concerned. Believe me, she will understand. It may just take time to get used to this situation. It can be awkward at first.
With a single mom who has been doing this awhile, she and her ex have probably already laid out some ground rules so try to respect them. If the ex and father aren’t in the picture then just be supportive of your date’s feelings; she may still be hurt.
#7. Her Kids Come First
So try to understand this. They may hate you. And you have to accept this with compassion and empathy. It is tough, no doubt but it can also be rewarding.
Dating a single mom is different than dating other single women. She probably won’t play games or act mysterious. She won’t have the time. She will tell you upfront what she needs, wants and expects from you. You won’t have to guess. If you fall for her you will find a loyal and mature woman.
If you fall for her kids too you will get even more love in return. You may even find yourself growing up and wanting to do anything you can for her and for them. It is amazing how your world will change.
She is a package deal and her kids come with her but there is more than enough love for all of them. There will also be much love returned back to you.
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