5 Tips for Dating a Divorced Man

If you're online dating, chances are you'll encounter a divorced man. If you've never been married yourself, does this thought make you a little uneasy? Before you go running for the hills, have a little perspective.

It's good to start by asking yourself some simple questions - ones you'd be asking with any man you date. Is he a good person? Does he treat you well? Is there chemistry? These are important things to notice, and these kind of questions can help guide you through dating. After all, not every person who's right for us comes in the package we expect.

Of course, divorced men may come with more complications than a man who's never married, but they also have been in a committed relationship and know what it takes. So I've put together a few tips to keep in mind as you're dating, so you know what to expect and what to look forward to:

Let the relationship flow. Maybe you're interested in a committed relationship, marriage, etc., but take don't delve into this subject on your first or second date. Refrain from asking him if he's willing to marry again. He has to get comfortable with you first. Give him a little time to get to know you before you put him on the spot about what he wants in life. It didn't work out the first time, so cut him some slack. If he really wants to make sure it works with you, it means getting to know you and letting the relationship take its course.

Don't become his therapist. Men and women can be bitter after a divorce, especially if they are the ones who were left. Don't put yourself in the position of therapist, constantly analyzing what went wrong of how poorly his ex treated him. Create a new relationship together without constantly rehashing the old. If he remains stuck in the past, then it's time for you to move on.

Know his complications. Divorced men have ex wives who may figure into their lives, especially if there are children. If he takes a phone call from his child in the middle of a romantic dinner, or has to cancel an evening because his ex needs him to take the kids, have some understanding of these extra demands on his time. Give him space to take care of his business and recognize that you don't always come first.

Appreciate his experience. Sure, he might have been married before, but that doesn't make him scared of relationships. In fact, he knows better what a commitment takes. And a real plus - he's probably more realistic and willing to compromise.

Maintain your sense of self. It might be easy to get wrapped up in his world, but don't put yours on hold. It's important to maintain your friendships and make your own plans. Have fun, and let the relationship move forward at its own pace.