Whether you're single or dating, we all see dozens of couples getting engaged each day at this age and get a little more impatient each time. You either show the picture to your boyfriend as a hint or wonder if you'll ever have someone in your life that you want to give you that ring. No matter where you are on the spectrum, there are a few things you need to know.

1. Marriage is not the start of your life.

So many people act like your life doesn't start until you are married and this just isn't true at all. You can accomplish anything you want as a single woman, as long as you are not just sitting around waiting for a man to marry you before you pursue your ambitions. Some of the most successful women I know have never been married and have more motivation than a lot of married women. Start working towards your goals now.

2. Love yourself first

I can tell you from experience, that relationship is so hard when you step into them not loving yourself. Find out what you love, what you believe, and what you want to get out of life. Then you will find someone they will just complement that, not change it. Know who you are before you get to know anyone else. This will help you to not compromise what you believe in to make someone else happy. Know what you believe and what you want out of life so you can find someone that challenges you and helps you realize even more about yourself.

3. You're not "behind" just because you're single.

Life is not a race. It's not about getting married at a certain age. Live your life and don't settle for a timeline that society has set for us. You are a different person than everyone around you and you may find that you will end up happier for not settling. Everyone has a different pace they do live at. One of my favorite sayings is "Bloom where you are planted". No matter what season of life you are in, bloom there. Strive in being single, strive in your dating relationship. Give it all you have so that when you do get married, you know how to give that season all you have as well.

In the end, we are still going to look at the pictures and have a sting of jealousy, but don't let that change the way you see yourself. You can still be everything you want to be in life without a ring on your finger, so go out and chase your dreams.