If you have been out of the dating loop in a while, perhaps because you have recently divorced or you’re a single mom who has been focusing on bringing up your child, the idea of getting back into the world of dating can be a daunting one. But, if you want to meet someone it is definitely worth taking the plunge.

With that in mind, here are my top tips for getting back into dating when it’s been a while:

Make sure you’re ready

Dating again is likely to be a disaster if you aren’t ready for it, so take your time and make sure that it’s what you really want. How do you know? That’s a really individual thing, but if you find yourself thinking about meeting someone new, you think you can manage dating around your other responsibilities, and you’re really missing the romance in your life, it might be time to climb back on the horse.

Try dating apps first

Chat lines, like the one at chatlinedating.com/gay, and apps like Match.com and Tinder, are a great way to ease yourself back into the world of dating because you can see what is available, chat yo potential dates, and have some fun without necessarily having to commit to a meeting before you’re ready. If you’re really nervous about dating again, this can really take the pressure off.

Take it slow

You might want to meet someone and start having the relationship you’ve always dreamed of, but for your own sake, and the sake of your children, if you have any, take it slow. The last thing you want is to be caught up in a whirlwind only to have your heart broken or your idea of dating ruined forever, so do some slow dating and have some fun without being in a rush to meet your perfect match.

Adopt a positive mindset

If you bring all of your anxieties into dating and have the mindset that you’ll never meet anyone worth your time, chances are you won’t. However, if you approach the task at hand with an open and positive mindset, good people will be more naturally attracted to you, and even if you don’t meet the one, you will probably have a lot of fun along the way.

Talk to the kids

If you have children, providing they are old enough to understand the concept of dating, and why you might like to do so, it’s a good idea to sit them down and talk to them about the fact you may be going on a few dates. Reassure them that they will remain your priority and be sure that you never do anything they would be uncomfortable with, and it will make this time much easier, and enjoyable for all of you.

Getting back into dating when you’ve been off the scene for a while is never easy, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare either – I mean dating is meant to be enjoyable, right?