Lately, I've been asking myself this question daily while going through a roller coaster of emotions from a recent (semi) breakup. We still occasionally hangout, talk, laugh, and have a good time when we're together. But the times that we don't spend hanging out, talking, laughing, and having a good time seem to outweigh the good times.

Do I really need a guy to make me happy?

If you would've asked me this question a month ago, or heck, even a week ago, I would have told you, "Yes. Absolutely."

But, I've noticed that I'm not his priority like he is to me. Why should I put time, effort, and love into something that was once amazing but is now not being reciprocated? We all know that relationships are a two-way street. Why should I try to make something work when he doesn't seem to care or show you that he wants to make it work and be a successful relationship? I've been struggling with this question for a few months now and I have never felt so alone, unappreciated, or unwanted. When you love someone and put all your time and effort into that relationship, it makes a breakup SO much harder and emotional to go through.

With that being said, I've learned that I need to put myself first. Is it as easy as just doing it? No, of course not. It's going to take time, patience, practice, and courage. But will it be worth it in the long run? I think so. I've been putting someone ahead of myself for way too long and it shows. We need to love ourselves before we can love someone else.

I've never been the type of girl to not be in a relationship. I have truly never been single, especially in recent years. I love having that companion and someone I can count on to be there for me through everything. It would be completely out of my comfort zone to go to a bar or establishment to try to find someone to be with and to make me happy. That's just not me. Why can't I love myself and have that just be enough? No I don't want this forever; of course I want my forever companion one day. But for now, I think it's time to focus on me. What makes me happy? What do I enjoy to do? How can I better myself?

Love yourselves. In the end, your happiness is what is most important. Try to live a life that is focused around you and what makes you happy. Yes, a guy may be a part of that, but make sure that you make yourself happy first or you'll never feel fully satisfied with your life.

It's time to practice what I preach. I'm an independent woman and I can definitely be happy without a man in my life! To be continued ...