COLUMNIST and trained counsellor Fiona Caine answers another set of reader dilemmas.

WHY CAN’T I FIND MR RIGHT?

I am 36 and divorced with three children. Although they are the most important thing in my life, I would dearly love to have a special person to share things with once more. I have done everything I can to find another meaningful relationship, but nothing has worked.

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I have tried dating agencies, lonely hearts columns, penfriends, social clubs, pubs and clubs and even joined the local ladies cricket team because they run excellent social events. In spite of this, I still haven’t met anyone I’d like to settle down with. Most of the men I’ve met are either married or seem to be just interested in sex - sometimes, both!

I feel as though there is a gaping hole in my life. I’ve found many new friends and met lots of interesting people, but I still haven’t found Mr Right. What am I doing wrong?

FIONA SAYS: YOU’RE DOING EVERYTHING RIGHT

I don’t think you’re doing anything wrong at all. Except, perhaps, trying too hard maybe? It’s great that you are being so proactive. But are you making the search for Mr Right the sole purpose of your life? Life is about so much more than that. You’ve already achieved more than many people, so why not see the interesting social life you lead as an end in itself, rather than a means to finding a new man?

REGRET NOT GOING WITH MY HUSBAND TO DUBAI

My husband recently accepted a contract for a job in Dubai that means he’s going to be away for the next 12 months. I could have gone with him, and we discussed this as a possibility, but we decided in the end that we couldn’t afford for me to lose my job.

He left five weeks ago and, from the moment I said goodbye to him at the airport check-in, I’ve regretted that decision. I’ve hated every moment of living alone - it’s so depressing. I miss him so much and don’t think I can cope with much more of this, but I don’t know what to do for the best.

FIONA SAYS: EXPLORE THE OPTIONS

I think there are several possibilities here. First, did you consider asking your employer for a sabbatical? It’s an increasingly popular option for people who want to put their careers on hold for a while and do something different. Obviously, that will depend on your job and may not be viable, but it could be an option worth exploring.

I don’t know what you do, but is there any chance you could do the same thing in Dubai - or at least get a job over there? The experience of working abroad might open new possibilities for you when you return to this country.

Thirdly, have you considered taking in a lodger?

Email help@askfiona.net for advice.