If you are like me, then you’re probably a 20 something who has recently been overwhelmed by the number of friends getting married. It seems like every weekend another acquaintance is changing their Facebook status to “Engaged.” Every time I see a post like this, I think, “Marriage? I can’t even take care of myself.” It seems there is this new added pressure to find the perfect boyfriend, post the perfect couple pics, and end in happily ever after. But, it does not have to work like this for everyone.

To the girls who aren’t ready to be married,

Your 20s are a time of exploration. It’s that awkward transition between let me be shoved into a campus of 22,000 people and try to adult, and my mom still pays for my cell phone bill. It is also a time to be by yourself and find out what you love and are passionate about. Going to college is learning how to be individual in a sea of many.

So your allowed to be single! You’re allowed to seek relationships with your best friends rather than boyfriends. This time is perfect to be selfish. So travel, see the world. Find your dream job, and stop putting pressure on marriage. There is no rush. That is the beauty in choice.You hold the key to your own path wether that includes a man or not. And guess what? You never have to get married if you don’t want to!

Everyone is different. I think the pressure of a perfect relationship is emphasized by media. Scientifically, men’s brains don't even fully develop until they are in their early 30’s. Why waste your time on the frat boy that called you cute, but jumped off a roof last weekend.

So shut down those thoughts of, shoot they’re getting married? I better fall in love soon. You don’t. Love will find you in the most curious ways and when it does you will know. So be yourself, be by yourself, and be happy with yourself, and one day, If you WANT you will find your happily ever after too.