WHAT ARE THE RULES OF DATING GAME?

I’M A recently divorced woman in my late 30s with two young children, and I would like to start dating again, but don’t know the rules! Or at least I can’t remember them.

I met my husband when we were in our early 20s, so it’s been a really long time since I was out there.

We met travelling and ended up in bed together after too many tequila slammers.

Most of my friends are married or in long-term relationships, so it’s unlikely I’ll meet anyone through them.

I’m also worried about when it’s acceptable to sleep with a date (if I ever find one).

I really feel on my own with this, as I don’t have any single mates. I’d love some advice.

WELL, good for you feeling ready to move on. I don’t think you should get hung up on “rules” to be honest. When it comes to sleeping with a date, it’s just about when it feels right with someone who feels right.

Don’t put pressure on yourself – you’ll know when you’re ready to take that step.

As far as meeting someone goes, yes it’s hard if you haven’t dated since your early 20s when there was a huge pool of available guys to choose from.

I’ve had fun with dating apps since my last divorce and you’ll find guys on there around the same age and some will be in a similar situation to you, looking for romance again post-divorce.

I found apps helped me to get back into the swing of talking and flirting, and it boosted my confidence. It really helps to chat to people and get to know them a bit before meeting in person.

The only rule is to be safe. I always met guys during the day for lunch or a coffee, so there’s less pressure about what comes next and alcohol isn’t involved.

Also, you may meet someone through your kids’ school or at a local cafe or through work. The key thing is to say yes to invites where you’ll meet new people.