16 Helpful Tips For Finding A Significant Other This Year

    If you can't stand being #ForeverAlone, listen to this advice.

    Mireya González
    by Mireya González

    BuzzFeed Staff, Mexico

    1. Be clear about what you're looking for.

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    Do you actually want a partner or are you just bored? Really think about this. If you come to the conclusion that it's the former, start by defining what kind of relationship you'd like to have and with what sort of person. You can even make a list. It'll help you approach your search with clarity of mind.

    2. But be realistic with your expectations.

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    If you do make a list of qualities that you're looking for in someone, don't go overboard. Try to find someone who fits the bill, but don't dismiss someone who doesn't. Everyone has their little imperfections (warning: you have them too).

    3. Be conscious of the awesomeness that you have to offer.

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    Yes, it's a cliché that in order for someone else to love you you need to love yourself first, but it makes sense. Make a list of the good things about yourself and make the most of them; or make a list of the not-so-good things, so that you can work on them and become the best version of yourself.

    4. Get off the sofa and give yourself a break from Netflix

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    You're not going to find love laying down, watching Netflix. So get up, make those plans, and go forth into the world.

    5. Don't get mad so easily about how horrible being single is.

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    It's one thing to laugh at your own despair and tragedy from time to time, but it's a whole different story when it becomes all that you talk about both on social media and in person. Your desperation can scare off potential partners and distance you from your friends.

    6. Don't be afraid to spend time with people from your past.

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    So you dated someone years ago (or maybe you didn't date, but you liked them a lot), but for some reason it didn't work out. Now that you're both ~older and wiser~, find that person and test the waters again. But, obviously, don't bring a toxic person or relationship back into your life.

    7. Sign up for a dating site.

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    If we can use the internet to find work or a new apartment, then why not use it to help us find a partner? These apps are going to save you a lot of time and they can also save you from unnecessary uncomfortable moments (particularly if you're not so good at flirting in public places).

    8. Work on your social media image.

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    Imagine what you'd like to project and apply it to your profiles. Take some cool photos, share things you like, and show your best side. But don't even think about lying about yourself, otherwise you'll deceive people. :(

    9. Expand your social circle.

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    Having a small group of friends you've had your whole life is amazing, but if you only ever go out with them, you'll be single forever. The best way to meet new people is to sign up for workshops, try new cafes, and accept invitations to events on Facebook from people you don't know very well.

    10. Walk your dog.

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    If you don't have the money to sign up for classes or workshops, nor to go out to bars and cafes, try taking your dog for a walk. There's nothing like an adorable pup to start a conversation between two animal lovers.

    11. Organize a party.

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    But not just any old party. Try something new: ask a friend to bring someone you don't know (preferably from the gender you're interested in). If you don't find anybody to fall in love with at the party, at least you'll make new friends.

    12. Pluck up the courage to ask someone you've always liked out.

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    Leave your insecurities aside. And NEVER think that someone is "out of your league." You won't know what they think of you until you ask them, so go for it! If they say no, then at least you'll know.

    13. Don't take rejection personally.

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    And don't start thinking things like "I'm going to be single forever," "I wish I hadn't been born," or similarly negative (and completely untrue!) stuff like that. Rejection hurts, but if you really want to fall in love, you'll need to be patient and have the will to succeed.

    14. Even if you're really desperate, keep being selective.

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    Don't go with the very first person who pays you any attention just because you're scared of being alone. You're worth so much more than that!

    15. When you find someone you like, focus on them.

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    You don't know if it'll turn out well, but when you do find someone with whom you think it could work out, don't mess around. If it doesn't work out, hey, keep on keeping on. It'll happen soon enough!

    16. And finally, don't make finding love your main purpose in life.

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    Whatever happens (partner or no partner), the most important thing is to NEVER stop having your own life and your own goals. Learn to confront moments of solitude without losing your mind. And spoiler alert: independent people attract other cool people, so that's a plus. ;)

    This post was translated from Spanish.