I want to be the first single parent to confess that I have not always actually “enjoyed” dating. There have been periods when I have made the decision that dating was dumb and taken a break from the whole circus. As I have gotten older, mellower, and healthier, however, I realize that the dating process does not have to be horrible—there can be elements of fun. With the right attitude as a matter of fact, I think it is possible to enjoy the whole dating process as a single parent.
Dating does not have to be miserable—in fact, consider that dating is actually time for you to get away and be able to be an adult for a while. It can be playful and fun—but that means cultivating the right attitude. Consider all the things that we do on a date—eat out at wonderful restaurants or have coffee and/or lunch, go to movies, wander art galleries or go to special events. What is so un-fun about that?!
Instead of looking at every date as the opportunity to find a potential life partner—try to just detach, relax, and enjoy it as a social activity. While I think it is a great idea to have in mind what it is you are looking for, judging each date or potential date according to a long “list” may keep you from being able to get to know someone, make a friend and have a good time. Not every date is going to go well, but every date does not have to be disastrous or painful either. Focus on the parts of dating that you do enjoy—whether it is getting dressed up and going out, or experiencing new restaurants, or getting to talk and get to know new people—and try not to think beyond the moment. You may find you are actually able to enjoy yourself on the path to finding a new special someone.