Being a single girl can be fabulous, enjoying the mingling and freedom. But for those who hit that wall of one too many nights out and/or longing for a meaningful commitment, the next phase can really suck.

You’ve tried it all.

Happy hour in the business district, sports bars on Sunday Funday.

Tinder, Happn, Match, Bumble. Name a dating app…you’re on it.

You even sucked up your pride (after months of hounding) and went on that blind date with your Aunt’s co-worker’s friend’s nephew. And no, he doesn’t resemble Bradley Cooper even in the least bit.

You’ve searched high and low for your true love. But you’re still left binge watching Netflix alone, wondering what the f gives?

∇∇∇

Don’t slap me for saying his, but don’t lose heart. The good news-He’s out there. The bad news-You have to be patient. If you’re like me, I hate waiting for things. So, I get it. I’m more of an immediate satisfaction type girl.

So, how do you survive (and thrive) as a single girl whose hit her limit on small talk over drinks with randos and is really, really ready to settle down?

It’s true that putting yourself out there by being social and open to meeting new people can definitely increase your chances of finding someone. I really believe that meeting the “right” guy, though, happens naturally and can’t be forced. So, be social and open for the pure enjoyment of getting to know new people, without any expectations. Without that added pressure, you’re going to enjoy your nights out way more.

Do you. Now is the one time in your life that you have the luxury to focus solely on yourself. Once you become part of couple, some of that freedom goes away. Eat up every minute! Take that dance class you’ve been wanting to try, plan a vacay with your girls, start a blog or volunteer your time at an animal shelter.  When you’re relishing in a passion and filling yourself up, the man hunt will be the last thing on your mind. Make a list of all the things you’ve always wanted to do, but never made time for. Now, start checking things off that list.

When I was single and at that point of being “over” my very overactive social life, I decided to get a second job to fill my time. A leasing agent position sounded fun-I could create my own schedule and see all the newest apartment buildings in Chicago. Ready to fully embrace my independence and focus on my new career…I met a guy. At work. He would later become my husband. Ha…I guess the joke was on me. Once I quit looking, he showed up literally on my doorstep.

Trust the timing of your life. xx