It’s the end of another semester and I am still single
But not lonely
It recently dawned on me that I just celebrated my one year anniversary- with dating myself.
We see throughout our life that most humans need other humans to feel happy. From movies and Nicholas Sparks novels, we are told unless the interactions come from a romantic partner, our happiness is not real. That we are fooling ourselves and just need to admit defeat and “put ourselves out there again.”
I am here to tell you that is bullshit.
Who are you going to spend the rest of your life with? Hint: it’s not that cute guy you met at Marston one time – it’s you from your first breath to your very last.
So go to dinner by yourself, binge watch Parks and Rec, exercise because you like seeing your toned reflection in the mirror, volunteer at an animal shelter, study to provide for your future travels or fancy clothes. Do everything FOR YOU, not to please anyone else.
Eat a whole pizza by myself is included in my list
This idea that all relationships need to have romance for it to be love has been unknowingly planted into our heads. Then, after you find yourself in a breakup, this idea sprouts and grows into a hideous monster who shouts “you’ll never be happy again!” Because in your mind, your chance for romance, and therefore love, has just been shattered into pieces never to be glued back together.
But I bring good news: friendships, too, can fill the love void.
.
The healthiest relationship I have ever been in is actually the friendship with my best friend. We respect the other while also being able to poke fun and create a support a system. Healthy friendships allow you to realize what you like and dislike about yourself without the fear of being left single.
As long as you have at least one good friend, you will never feel lonely.
More than one friend is good too
We study at such a beautiful campus that everyone should leave their dorm or apartment every once in a while for something other than class. You do not need a boyfriend or girlfriend to go enjoy everything UF has to offer.
Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that if you are in a relationship you are unhappy or living a lie. When you really find a right fit for you, there will not be a need to sacrifice your own self and it will feel just like being with a best friend.
But until you get to that point, remember that you are allowed to be happy.
Congratulations you’re still single and loving every second of it