What’s a Guy to Do?

What I have found through personal experience, research, and discussions with other men, is that communication and patience are the keys for almost all of these concerns. 

Be upfront about your situation and don’t hide that you have a child. 

If you really are "shopping" for a mom, you need to be extremely honest about this.  If you are not, do your best to clearly articulate what you are looking for with your girlfriend.  Ask her to share what her concerns are and address them with her. 

Be clear on your expectations.

Your Child Is Your Responsibility

On that note, raising and disciplining your child are your responsibilities. 

You can’t pass the buck to do this.  You are the parent and the authority figure.  It’s your job to teach your child to respect the relationship you have with your lady, not hers.  If you don’t step up to this and nip it in the bud early, then expect lots of problems later on, especially with teenagers.  If you let your child step on your partner, you’re probably going to find yourself single again.

Being a single father is a big deal. 

It’s tough and comes with a lot of difficult choices and discussions.  Be honest and communicate with your partner.  Be patient and help her when she has a tough time with the situation.  Communication is the key to unlocking the potential of a worthwhile relationship that you, your partner, and your child can enjoy together.

Jason Likert is the founder of DivorcedDadsOnline.com. The goal of DivorcedDadsOnline.com is to provide a support network for divorced (and divorcing) fathers and common-sense advice for parents whether divorced or married. 

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