Dear Love Coach,

I have been single for many years, and I have a ten year-old daughter. I'm finding it increasingly difficult to meet anyone, and I feel that the fact that I have a kid is putting men off. I have completely lost my confidence in this area and not sure what to do to turn my love life - and my life - around. I turn 40 next year and am petrified of bering a washed up old maid. Please help.


Cynthia, Cornwall


Dearest Cynthia,


Now, first thing is to stop putting yourself down like that. Old maid? You're not even 40 and that is the age where you bloom! Your life is only just beginning so you had better get yourself in check asap. You're not the only single mum out there, and many other women - and men - are able to find partners. I don't believe it is your daughter that is 'putting men off' - it is the vibes that you are sending out to protect yourself as you are afraid of dealing with a new relationship. You need to gain some confidence and open up yourself to new possibilities. Start working on your own happiness and what you want - get your hair done, go for a run, take up painting classes - and the rest will just follow. Just you wait and see.