Ryan Phillippe – who shares two children with former wife Reese Witherspoon – finds that his personal life is always under scrutiny by the media. As a result, trying to date while in the public eye makes the task rather difficult.

The 42-year-old actor, who says people don’t always understand his high profile, shared with People magazine: “[Being in the public eye] affects those in your life who didn’t choose to be a public figure: your children and the people you are in a relationship with.

I think that’s when it gets really difficult. Of course [dating] is a challenge. When I’ve been involved with people in my industry in the past, there is a little bit more of an understanding of what to expect, but I feel like when you are with someone who is not in the industry, the focus isn’t there to the same degree.”

And the Secrets and Lies star vowed not to take life too seriously since splitting from Reese in 2006, adding: “I’ve faced every manner of gossip, and I don’t take myself as seriously now.

There is a freedom and a release that comes with maturity. I’ve made peace with it. We live in a time where being a private person isn’t really an option anymore.”

Ryan also admitted he doesn’t have anything new to teach those who look for dating or relationship advice, as he believes everything has already been said by others.

“Relationships are just not territory that I have anything new to offer in terms of that experience. It’s been said by everyone. There are ups and downs in relationships.”

However, the actor is open to the idea of marriage again if the right person comes along: “I’m open to it. I don’t have a date or any plans set. I haven’t closed any books!”