So I am 23 and all of my friends are in relationships, but I am the only one in the group who isn’t dating anyone. It’s not that I don’t want a relationship, but I am so busy in my personal life that I am not sure if I’d have time to even have a boyfriend. However, I feel really pressured from my friends and family because I’m not in a relationship. At first, I just overlooked their opinions, but I am starting to feel like maybe I am a failure or something. Do you think it’s bad that I am not in a relationship?
Sincerely,
Mate-less
Dear Mate-less,
Don’t ever feel the need to change because of someone’s opinion. I think you should be living your life the way you want. If it works for you, then that’s all that matters. It’s always a tough situation because even though we try to ignore people’s opinions, their words still creep into our minds. Before you know it, their opinions start to make us doubt ourselves, and then we start altering ourselves according to their ideas of us.
If you are content with who you are, then don’t feel like you need to change. You know what is best for you. If you force a relationship, it just won’t work, simple as that. You should be in a relationship only if you want to, and if you actually have feelings for a person. Don’t just date someone because you feel like you have to or you’re getting “too old.” Everyone has different priorities. Nothing is wrong with focusing on your career or schooling, instead of finding the potential one and only. There is no time limit. I guarantee that when you feel like you’re ready, then the right person will come along—you wont have to force it or find a random person to call as your boyfriend.
Be you,
Gabby