Earlier today, I introduced the “personal ad” conversation for dating and single parents. It definitely seems like “the thing to do” in this day and age—but is it something that works for young people or certain kinds of people or is it well-suited to single parents? One of the things I would like to discuss is how to integrate online dating and personal ads with every-day parenting and family life responsibilities.
I was talking with another single parent who said that online “dating” and personal ads actually worked well for her because she didn’t have to go out and about to screen people in the initial stages—she could do it all from the comfort of her home when her child was asleep or otherwise occupied. For this reason, she thought it was a “more responsible” way to date and try to meet people as a single parent.
But, what about those single parents who actually want and need to go on some “real dates”? Chatting online isn’t the same as getting dressed up and heading out to dinner and a movie! For some of us, the fun is in the process and it isn’t about the goal of “achieving” a perfect mate through checklists and comparisons of likes and dislikes.
I imagine that it doesn’t matter whether it is personal ads and online “dating” or real time dating—we single parents still need to balance out our time and focus with our familial duties. Is it more tempting to spend too much time checking out online dating sites and other personal ads or “matches” when it is on the computer instead of the built-in barrier that more traditional dating offers?
What do you think about balancing and integrating the world of personal ad dating with the realities of the every day responsibilities of a single parent? Is it easier than traditional dating? More difficult? What is your opinion?
Also: Let’s Talk Personal Ads–Part One
What’s Wrong with Not Looking?
No Bars or Dances (Thank You Very Much)