Dating as a single parent comes with its own unique set of challenges and priorities. In this article, we’ll explore the top dating deal breakers that single parents often encounter, shedding light on the key factors that can make or break a potential relationship when you have kids to consider. Whether you’re a single parent navigating the dating world or someone interested in dating a single parent, understanding these deal breakers is essential for building meaningful and lasting connections.
Identify Your Own Personal “Deal Breakers” Up Front
As a single parent, dating and building healthy relationships can be part of taking care of yourself. However, it’s vital to identify your own personal deal breakers upfront so that you can recognize red flags early on and save yourself and your children some potential heartache. For example, the following types of behaviors should be deal breakers for most dating single moms and dads:
- Mistreating You – Never put up with physical or verbal abuse in a dating relationship.
- Mistreating Your Children – Whether it’s being rude to your children or ignoring them altogether, be extremely cautious about being in a relationship with anyone who is less than 100% kind to your children.
- Being Manipulative or Controlling – This is usually a sign of deep insecurity and it’s best to allow such an individual to work through his or her issues before even attempting to build a relationship together.
- Becoming Too Quickly Dependent on You – Ideally, you want to be in a relationship with someone who can stand on his or her own. It’s nice to compliment one another’s strengths, but you don’t need someone who is going to depend on you completely for his or her emotional well-being.
- Lack of Self-Control – Dating someone who explodes in anger or cannot control his or her drinking is definitely a red flag that should not be ignored.
- Demeaning Others – Individuals who are condescending or rude to others may eventually treat you the same way.
- Making You or Those You Trust Uncomfortable – Trust your instincts. If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, do not continue to pursue a relationship with him or her.
- Disregarding What’s Important to You – Let’s say that there’s something you really need to talk about, but the person you’re dating doesn’t think it’s important enough to discuss. This type of insensitivity probably won’t go away with time.
- Having Different Relationship Goals – If you’re attracted to someone who isn’t ready to commit, and you want more out of the relationship, let it go. You’re not likely to change his or her mind, and you deserve to be with someone who wants the same things you do.
By understanding and upholding these deal breakers, single parents can navigate the complexities of dating with greater confidence. Remember that prioritizing your well-being and that of your children is not only an act of self-care but also a step towards building meaningful and lasting connections that enhance your lives.
