Majority Of Single Parents Experience ‘Glow Up’ Post-Breakup, Survey Finds

A new survey reveals that single parents are not just adjusting to life after a breakup — they’re thriving.

The poll, conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Stir, a dating app for single parents, surveyed 1,000 single moms and 1,000 single dads to explore how they are embracing life post-breakup. It found that 82% believe their best days are still ahead, with many experiencing significant personal growth.

Two-thirds (67%) of respondents reported experiencing a “glow up,” a period of personal transformation where they feel more confident, self-assured, and in tune with their true selves.

Beyond the immediate “glow up,” 77% of single parents described undergoing a “grow up” — a shift in priorities and mindset. More than half said they have matured into a better version of themselves (57%), left their old selves in the past (51%), and let go of grudges (49%).

For 70% of respondents, their relationship with themselves has improved since becoming a single parent, and many find they are more desirable than ever before. Nearly half (49%) even consider themselves more dateable now than before they had children, attributing their attractiveness to increased confidence (45%), improved mental health (43%), and better emotional well-being (42%).

Single parents also reported receiving more romantic interest than before, with 54% noting an increase in approaches from potential dates. When it comes to what they find attractive, qualities like maturity (55%), the ability to show care and attention (54%), and responsibility (54%) top the list. Other top turn-ons include confidence (51%), patience (48%), self-sufficiency (42%), comfort with their sexuality (33%), and emotional vulnerability (23%).

“These findings confirm that single parents arent just adapting – theyre elevating,” said Rachel DeAlto, Chief Dating Expert at Stir. “The combination of personal growth and increased self-awareness creates a magnetic attraction.”

On average, single parents spent about 11 months on self-rediscovery before reentering the dating world. This time was spent learning how to adjust to life on their own (42%), taking better care of themselves (39%), and prioritizing personal needs (35%).

Beyond dating, single parents are finding fulfillment in other areas of life. Many have deepened relationships with friends and family (41%), while single dads are more likely to focus on fitness (35%) or revisit hobbies (24%) they had put aside during their past relationship. Single moms, meanwhile, are prioritizing self-care (41%) and trying new experiences, such as different foods or classes (28%).

“We’re seeing single parents prioritize themselves in healthy, transformative ways,” DeAlto said. “This isn’t selfish – it’s strategic self-investment that benefits both parent and child.”

The study underscores a clear message: for many single parents, life after a breakup is a time of renewal, growth, and newfound confidence — both in themselves and in their romantic prospects.