Tip 1: There is no should

If you’re a solo dad, there’s no rule book on how to be attractive. There is no should. How do you and your kids? If they like it, great. If not? It doesn’t matter, because their liking of you is not part of your attractiveness as a dad—your relationship with them is. They need to know that they can trust you and rely on you for support, comfort and security.

Tip 2: Stop trying to be perfect

When you’re a single dad, your kids don’t care about whether or not you get every line right on your face. They want you to love them and spend time with them.

Tell yourself that it’s okay if no one else finds you attractive. Focus on being a great father to your children, rather than worrying about how others perceive you. Put in as much effort as possible to be a good dad, but be sure to cut yourself some slack while doing so.

Tip 3: Don’t Believe The Stereotypes

People tend to play into stereotypes, often assuming that men with children cannot find romantic partners and also considering that single fathers are either irresponsible or only looking for sex.

You need to see these misconceptions for what they are – untrue and unfair generalisations designed to scare men away from being single dads.

Set aside such negative preconceptions, go out there, and meet new people who will see you for your actual value as a man who is caring, responsible, and highly successful at raising a child on his own.

Tip 4: It Is Not As Bad As You Think

Accepting The Fact That You Are A Solo Parent Is The First Step. Do Not Become One of Those Father Figures Who Start Playing Favourites: You are both father and mother to your child. Ask for Help; There’s Nothing Wrong with It.

Find a reliable support group or someone you can talk to who is outside of your situation but understands what you’re going through, so you have someone to commiserate with as well as help you out when needed.

Tip 5: Being Alone Doesn’t Mean Being Lonely

Having a good relationship with yourself is a must when raising kids on your own. Whether you’re single by choice or divorced, you need to find ways to enjoy your own company and fill up those solo nights with fun activities for yourself.

Dating can be tricky as a single parent, but taking time for yourself will help remind you of what it feels like to have fun again.

Tip 6: Take Time For Yourself

As a solo parent, it’s essential to schedule time for yourself, whether it’s a trip to your local pub or even just a quiet hour of reading at home.

Taking time to do what you enjoy is vital for your physical and mental health. If you enjoy being around people but don’t have children nearby, consider volunteering at a local organisation and making new friends.

Tip 7: Embrace Your Differences

There’s no one way to be a parent. Some dads are highly involved, while others are more laid-back. If you’re a single dad, embrace your differences.

Try not to let them negatively impact your relationships with your children. They might think something’s wrong with you if you make an effort to be too much like their friends\’ dads. And that can damage how they view you in the years to come.

Read more: Manifesting Your Future Together: How to Create a Shared Vision for a Relationship.

Tip 8: Enjoy The Ride!

Make the Most of What You Have: Don’t view your single status as something that sets you apart from others. At its core, being a single dad is about a unique relationship with your child. So cherish it and make every moment count.

Tip 9: Respect Your Kids, They Are In A Difficult Position Too

Having a parent date someone can be awkward for your kids, and you need to respect that. They may feel left out because now you have to divide your time between them and another person.

Meaning more missed opportunities for family time together. Even worse, some of their friends may tease them about having a new mom.

Even if it’s only a girlfriend at first, let your kids know that they come first and everyone else comes second.

Tip 10: What Would Steve Do? (Spoiler Alert, He Did It!)

Keeping in contact with your ex is rarely a good idea. However, it can be tempting to try to repair broken bridges if your ex-wife has found someone new and is happy.

You may just be putting yourself in a position to cause problems for your family by showing up again after they have moved on. Focus on being a great single dad, keep working hard, and you will soon be dating again! Remember: what would Steve do? (Spoiler alert, he did it!)