Despite leading a fulfilling and purposeful life without a romantic partner, the reality is that being alone can be challenging. While I typically conceal my emotional distress, the pressure is starting to take its toll on me. Honestly, I am exhausted from portraying myself as a lighthearted, unattached woman and there are moments when I find it almost unbearable.

1. I'm The Only Single Person At Family Gatherings

I am quite literally the only unattached individual above the age of 12 who attends any family gathering. I am the reason they always place that one odd-numbered place mat at the Thanksgiving dinner table. I'm the one who never has to leave the party early to tend to my pet. It's frustrating.

2. I Have Very Few Single Friends

Despite their best efforts, my friends who are in committed relationships cannot completely empathize with my experiences. While they do express sympathy when I share my mishaps, they seem to have conveniently forgotten their own experiences before becoming exclusive with their partners. If I do happen to find someone I am genuinely interested in for the long term, the first question everyone asks is, "Have you two become official yet?" It's an added stressor that I don't need in this situation.

3. Most People Put Their Boyfriend First Eventually

It's completely natural to select a partner and prioritize that relationship. I don't begrudge my friends who are in committed relationships for prioritizing their partners; I just desire some of that domestic contentment for myself.

4. It Seems Like Everyone Is Better At Nabbing A Guy Than I Am

One week, I'm having a conversation with an acquaintance who, like me, is single. The next week, I discover that she has met someone and they have already updated their social media statuses and are planning to introduce each other to their parents the following day. I can't help but wonder how these women make such rapid progress in their romantic relationships, and what am I doing differently?

5. I've Learned A Lot From Being Single, But I'm Ready For A New Lesson

I can't deny that focusing on my own needs over the past years has been beneficial. I've dealt with numerous challenges independently, from sudden emergencies to health scares and even large spiders invading my home. However, a friend pointed out to me recently, "You are fully capable on your own. You don't need a man!" Although I am managing well independently, I still have no idea how to merge my life with a partner's and make it work.

6. Just Because I Know How To Do It All By Myself Doesn't Mean I Want To

Flying solo has helped me develop confidence and self-sufficiency, which is fantastic. However, now that I have become comfortable being an independent woman, I am eager to connect with an equally independent man and create a dynamic power couple. Is it too much to ask for this kind of partnership?

7. I Can Go On Adventures By Myself, But It's Better As Half Of A Couple

On Saturdays, my ex-partner and I would embark on spontaneous adventures that led us to discover new places, such as a nudist beach or a cowboy bar. Could I continue to explore these experiences alone and relish in my freedom? Perhaps, but the true pleasure of those weekend outings came from sharing those moments with someone I deeply cared about. It wasn't just about observing bare bottoms on the beach or dancing to the music on the jukebox; the enjoyment came from experiencing those adventures with someone special.

8. Sex Is Better When I'm Committed

I'm aware that I'm fortunate to have the freedom to engage in sexual encounters with whomever I desire, without any restrictions. However, despite having no moral or societal concerns about casual hookups, I have reached a point where I no longer enjoy this phase of my life. What I crave now are unhurried late-afternoon lovemaking sessions with a long-term partner.

9. I'm Tired Of Being On My Best Behavior All The Time

It's evident that the grass always appears greener on the other side, as my coupled friends confess to missing the excitement of dressing up and going on first dates (although I believe they've blocked out their single days from memory). Regardless of how well it turns out, a first date always feels like an interview. I meticulously dress up, check my hair repeatedly, pop enough mints to make my breath icy fresh, and sit across from a complete stranger, feigning composure. Frankly, I'm tired of it. All I yearn for now is to skip the formalities and get to the part where I'm slouched in front of the television with a greasy pizza.

10. I'm Too Crotchety Alone

I desire a relationship that can stimulate and motivate me, helping me avoid turning into a cantankerous senior citizen before I even reach the age of 40. Nonetheless, this doesn't imply that I'm ready to settle for the first man that comes my way and hold on to him regardless of the circumstances. Honestly, if I don't find my match until later in life, I'll adapt and learn to live with it - but I would prefer not to.

11. I Know What I'm Looking For In A Partner

I was just kidding about abs, a six-figure income, and a killer smile being necessary qualities. I know the difference between superficial and essential traits, and I'm eager to discover my lifelong partner.

12. Being Upfront About Wanting A Relationship Doesn't Mean I'm Going To Settle

Rather than going on numerous first dates in hopes of finding someone, I am taking a quality-over-quantity approach and becoming more selective about who I spend my time with. Therefore, acknowledging my loneliness and dissatisfaction does not indicate desperation. I refuse to settle for anything less than what I deserve, which is why I haven't done so thus far.

13. I Know That A Relationship Isn't The MOST Important Thing, But It's Still Part Of A Balanced Life

While I understand that a boyfriend is not a cure for mental turmoil or low self-esteem, and that being single doesn't mean one is unsuccessful, I still hold the hope that sharing my life with the right person will enhance my capabilities and bring out the best in me.

14. I've Learned That Following The "rules" Is Counterproductive

I am tired of pretending to be cool and indifferent. I am not interested in investing time in a guy who only wants me when he can't have me. I want a man who becomes even more enthusiastic about being with me when he realizes that I want to be with him. I hope he exists.