First of, I ought to preface this by stating that there's absolutely nothing wrong with being single. I personally happen to be happily single for long stretches of time. However, I like to believe that there's such a thing as “good single” (when you are out there living and loving life on your own terms) and “bad single” (you've defaulted to hibernation mode and are stuck in a serious rut where it seems easier to be alone than make an effort to leave your couch).
So, how do you know which kind of single you are? Here are a few painfully obvious signs that you've definitely been single too long.
1. You're turning into the crazy cat/dog person.
Animals are perfect. They stop us company, lift our spirits and show us love whenever we need it. However, if you are spending additional time together with your pets than actual humans, it may be time to switch things up. Clear signs that you may be going to crazy pet person town: your favorite date night outfit is totally covered in pet fur without a link brush in sight and you've got just signed up for Amazon Prime so it's easier to order costumes for the cat.
2. You've more excuses than social engagements.
As life coach Rianne Mason points out, “there is completely nobody on this planet that does not have enough time to satisfy new people! If you're often picking out strange and downright fake excuses to avoid going on a date, you have been single for too long. No, the fact that your mom's cousin's closest friend is within town doesn't count as a valid excuse to avoid to start dating ?.”
However, being single is not only about dating. If you find you're making excuses to prevent any type of social interaction (including spending time with friends – both old and new), you're likely in a serious rut. Individuals need people, end of story. Even when you have been single for what seems like forever, make sure that you're still reaching out to your support of friends and acquaintances.
3. Your personal grooming routine has slackened considerably.
It's no secret that when you look good, you are feeling good. In case your personal grooming habits have “relaxed” enough where you've got braidable leg hair or your lack of shaving is causing individuals to mistake you for any member of a ZZ Top cover band, this could be an indication that you have been single for far too long.
4. Your most meaningful relationships are with characters on your favorite Netflix and Hulu shows.
You can name each and every character on BoJack Horseman and are intimately acquainted with all of the relationship ups and downs around the Affair, and yet you cannot recall the last time you had a date.
As Mason shares, “it's perfectly normal to possess a night in now and then. However, when the last time you went out for a dinner and a cocktail was in a couple of months ago, you have been single for too long. Ben & Jerry shouldn't be your Friday night plans – yes, we're talking about the frozen treats. You can't expect to make new friends to take a seat at home and binge-watching Netflix all evening.”
Sure, dating is scary and it is simpler to live vicariously through Ted Mosby than leave the house, but if the characters of This Is Us are starting to feel like your actual family, it might be time for you to switch some misconception.
5. It seems like it's the perfect time.
We all know when we've been single too much time. Whether it's a scream or simply a whisper that's suggesting to place yourself out there again — participate in it. With summer around the corner, it is time to trim those metaphorical bushes and meet new people.