Dating as a Single Mom of 3: We Are the Real Prize

Let me just say this — dating these days? It’s not it.Especially when you’re a single mom of three. It’s like the minute someone hears “instant family,” they’re already halfway out the door.

But guess what?That’s their loss — not ours.

No More Settling

For a long time, I thought maybe I had to settle.Like somehow, having kids meant I had to lower my standards or be grateful for any attention that came my way.

But after one failed marriage, I made a promise to myself:

This next one has to be it — or I’d rather be alone.

I wrote out a list of everything I want in a partner.Not a fantasy list — but real, meaningful, “this is what healthy love looks like” kind of stuff.

And if someone didn’t check off at least 90% of that list?It’s a respectful: “Thank you, next.”

You Don’t Have to Accept Less

Having three kids — or ten, for that matter — doesn’t mean you settle.

It doesn’t mean you’re “lucky” if someone wants to date you.You are the prize.Your family is the blessing.

And if someone can’t see that?They’re simply not meant to be part of your story.

A Shift in Perspective

I used to feel so self-conscious about dating with kids.Like I had to explain myself or apologize for my family.

But now? That mindset is gone.

Now, I know:

Any man would be lucky to join this chaos-filled, love-drenched life we live.

My home is full of:

• Laughter

• Competitive game nights

• Random “I love yous”

• Hugs out of nowhere

• The kind of energy that can light up a room

We are loud.We are fun.We are nuts.We are the real prize.

Never Let Your Kids Feel Like Baggage

This is important.Never let your kids feel like they are baggage.Not to you, and not to anyone else.

And if they do feel that way — if they’re acting out or struggling?

Then it’s not time to focus on new relationships.It’s time to pour into them.

Kids act out when needs aren’t being met.Fill their cups, and life gets a lot less chaotic. I promise.

Kids Are Meant to Slow You Down

I believe this with my whole heart.Kids are meant to slow us down.

They cry at self-checkout because they want to scan the items with you.

And why not let them?Why rush through it?

You only get them this little once.Soak it up.Let them help.Let them feel important.Let them feel seen.

You Already Have Something Beautiful

And if the love you’re waiting for isn’t out there right now?That’s okay.

Because what you already have is:

• A family filled with love

• Laughter in the everyday

• A home that hugs back

And that is more than enough.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Waiting to Be Chosen — You’re Choosing What’s Right

Being a single mom doesn’t put you at a disadvantage — it puts you in a place of power.You’ve seen enough to know what’s real and what’s not.You’ve built a world full of warmth, joy, and strength.And you’re not waiting for someone to come save you — you’re building a life that someone would be honored to join.

So don’t shrink.Don’t settle.Don’t second-guess the magic of your family.

Because you and your kids?You are the prize.And the right one will never make you forget it.