Singleness is so underrated in this generation. Everyone is looking for their special someone, and not realizing that they can be the own special someone. And it's funny, for a generation that's all about independence and the power within yourself, we're really scared of being alone. I think it's all about perception.
As millennials, we are taking longer to "settle down" and start families, but that normally just means marriage. We're still dating up a storm as evident from the 50,000 dating apps out there (hyperbole). We're still seeking a romantic connection at just about every corner. There's still a part of us that believes we haven't truly made it unless we can say there's someone out there who loves us, as more than a friend.
For me it started in kindergarten. Remember when we had like and like like as our measuring sticks for romance? Oh the simpler times. His name was Kenneth and he was by far the most gorgeous five-year old boy. Golden locks and piercing blue eyes, he was a catch--in reality I probably just liked his crayon box or something. Nevertheless, he was my first crush. One of very many on my list of improbable loves. And with each rejection, or perceived rejection, I grew more and more aware of my "failure" in the dating department.
I guess I shouldn't have freaked out so much, I (almost) always was a late bloomer. It took until freshman year of college for me to have my first kiss, and an actual relationship. But try telling a 16-year-old girl that her life isn't over just because she doesn't have a date to prom, doesn't really get through.
Why though? Why is it still so ingrained in us that we have to have someone? And this is not just for girls. I have many guy friends who come to me in the middle of anxiety attacks about finding "the one", and not settling. They're afraid of making the wrong choice, or missing out on someone worth while, or even just hurting someone they care about, but just don't think is the right fit. See ladies, guys do have feelings sometimes.
But just take a moment to think about this: Sophomores in college are freaking out about finding the one person they're supposed to spend the rest of their lives with... They have so much time!
At this age, you don't even know what the next 10 years look like, much less the entirety of your existence. So why is it so imperative for you to find someone right now?
My advice is to just let it go. It really is true that things come to us once we stop looking for them. And maybe it's time for you to just embrace who you are, singleness and all. Take yourself on some dates, get to know yourself, make yourself better, so that when the time does come for you and your significant other to meet, things can go a little more smoothly.
