Dating as a Single Mom

The Struggle is Real

Dating as a single mom is like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions—confusing, time-consuming, and often leaving you wondering if it’s even worth the effort. Between managing your child’s school schedule, working, running a household, and trying to maintain some semblance of self-care, adding romance to the mix feels nearly impossible. But let’s be real—just because we’re moms doesn’t mean we don’t want companionship, love, or, at the very least, a nice meal that we didn’t have to cook.

The Balancing Act

One of the hardest parts of dating as a single mom is the sheer lack of time. Between working a full-time job, getting a degree, running a small business, school drop-offs, child forgot something at home and now your late for work, football practice, and making sure homework is done, the idea of putting on a cute outfit and meeting someone for dinner feels like a chore. And if you do manage to schedule a date, you better believe it took CIA-level coordination—lining up a babysitter, making sure your kid is fed, and hoping they don’t call you mid-date because they can’t find the remote or their favorite stuffed animal before bed.

The "Mom Guilt" Factor

Single moms know this all too well: the ever-present mom guilt. The moment you start getting excited about a date, the voice in your head starts whispering, “Shouldn’t you be spending this time with your child?” It’s as if prioritizing your own happiness somehow makes you a bad mom. But here’s the truth—happy moms raise happy kids. It’s okay to carve out time for yourself without feeling guilty.

The Screening Process

Dating as a single mom comes with an extra layer of caution. You’re not just dating for yourself—you’re dating with the future of your child in mind. You can’t afford to waste time on people who aren’t serious or who bring drama into your life. The moment someone starts showing red flags (or even pink ones), you start mentally packing their bags.

And let’s not even get started on the awkward moment when you have to tell a potential partner that your child will always come first. If they flinch at that statement, they can show themselves out.

The Ex Factor

Co-parenting adds another level of complexity. If you share custody, you might find yourself explaining your schedule to someone new, and let’s be honest—not everyone is ready for the unpredictability that comes with parenting. Then there’s the issue of an ex who may or may not be supportive of your dating life. Some are mature and respectful, while others act like they suddenly want to be a family again the moment they see you moving on.

Is It Even Worth It?

Despite the challenges, dating as a single mom can be worth it if you meet the right person—someone who understands your responsibilities, respects your time, and doesn’t see your child as baggage but as a bonus. The key is to take your time, trust your instincts, and never settle for less than what you deserve.

At the end of the day, being a single mom is already a full-time job. If you’re going to date, make sure it’s with someone who adds to your life, not someone who drains it. And if love isn’t in the cards right now, that’s okay too—because you’re already doing the hardest and most important job there is.

What’s your biggest struggle when it comes to dating as a single mom? Let’s talk about it in the comments!

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Breaking the Stigma: Understanding the Daily Struggles of Single Moms