Single fathers, start the new year by finding love!

Summary  

Having kids doesn’t make dating more difficult – although it can sometimes feel like that. Once you’re ready to take the plunge and get back in the game, this article suggests how you can go about finding your soul mate. Boost your confidence and your biceps with a few sessions in the gym then save time by dating online. Not all new year’s resolutions are made to be broken. Make 2013 the year you find love with this handy guide for single dads.    

---

With Christmas over and the kids back at school, now’s the time to think about your love life. After all, what’s the point in working off that festive belly if no one’s around to admire it? Dating for single dads doesn’t have to be difficult. On dating websites, like www.eharmony.co.uk, there are plenty of ladies waiting to make your acquaintance. Here’s how you can find love in 2013.
    

Making sure you’re ready  

Dating can be a nerve-racking business so it’s important you’re ready. Before swapping numbers with singletons, get advice from your guy friends. Let your mates know you’re on the look out for love and get a few pointers.

Boost your self-confidence with a few trips to the gym. Save time by going on your lunch break and mixing strength with cardiovascular exercises. This will help you lose that tummy and give you a well-toned chest. In a few weeks you’ll be a man of steel and ready to woo that lucky lady.

Telling the kids    

Dating as a single dad isn’t difficult but you have other people’s feelings to consider. Your children, especially if they’re young, may have trouble understanding why Daddy is spending time with a stranger. While this shouldn’t put you off dating, it’s important to be honest. Make your kids aware you’re seeing someone. However, avoid introducing them until you’re sure the relationship has a future.   

   

.
Get online  

Working and looking after your children leaves little time for socialising, let alone dates. Make finding love easier by searching online. Dating websites find matches for you based on everything from interests to values. Not only does being a member increase your chances of success, you avoid no-hope dates – great if you’re a time-strapped Dad.
The internet is also a great place for first-date inspiration and to chat with guys in a similar position to you. Join in and become part of the community by visiting eHarmony UK’s Twitter Page.

Preparing for your first date    

Got yourself a date? The first thing you need to do is find a reliable babysitter. The last thing you want on the big night is frantically finding a replacement if they let you down. Ask a family member to do you a favour. Your kids won’t mind you going out if it means spending an evening with Gran.   With the kids sorted, now you can decide what to wear. Before the day arrives, pick an outfit and try it on. Smart clothes have a habit of shrinking in the wardrobe so make sure buttons aren’t straining and zips do up. After a shave and a shower you’re ready to meet the girl of your dreams.
 

Resource box

Esquire
Fashion advice for those important first dates

Men’s Fitness
 Workouts to help lose the weight that Christmas put on

BBC Good Food
Romantic recipes to cook if the babysitter cancels