When you are a single mum and just venturing out into the dating scene, especially speed dating, it can be pretty scary. You wonder what you should do, how you should act and if you should even be dating in the first place. There are so many things running through your mind. Should you take time away from your kids to date? How will you find someone who will be good for your kids and accept them?

The thing is, you should do things for yourself. It is important that you keep yourself not only physically, but mentally healthy as well. By socializing and dating, you are doing something good for you. Dating sites have tons of advice, but it is really simple. Just remember to be HAPPY: Honesty, Attitude, Presentation, Prepared and You.

Honesty – Be honest about who you are. Don’t try to hide the fact that you have kids. True, some guys will freak, but many guys, most even, will be very receptive. Dating a single mum has it challenges, but many men recognize a single mum as stable and “together.”

Attitude – Having a good attitude is important when you are speed dating, or dating in general. Be positive, about your situation, yourself and your date. Don’t bash your ex or say negative things. In speed dating, you have but a few minutes to make a great impression, your attitude can make it or break it.

Presentation – Presentation is important when you are speed dating. Some men have an image of a single mum as a woman who is disheveled and frumpy. You don’t have to go looking like a super model, but you should take some care to look nice.

Prepared – Speed dating is very fast paced. You have a very short time to get to know your “dates.” With this in mind, you need to be prepared with some questions that you want to ask. There are dating sites that will give you tips on how to make a question list, but the main thing that you should do it ask the questions that are important to YOU.

You – Above all, when you are dating, speed dating, whatever, just be yourself. Let people be attracted to you, just as you are. Don’t try to change to make someone like you or love you. Remember that you are a strong woman, beautiful and have wonderful qualities. As a single mum you are teaching your daughters how to be strong, confident women and your sons to respect strong, confident women. Don’t every compromise who you are just so someone will like you.

So as you prepare for your next speed dating event, remember that you are there to have some fun and be happy. By doing this for yourself you will also create a better environment for your children as as happy mother. Your children are important but so are you. Just go with the flow and have a great night.