Why is it that more and more folks are taking a rain check on relationships these days?

Well, it boils down to two simple reasons: sky-high expectations or just hating the hassle. People figure they’re better off alone than settling for a lackluster love life.

But here’s the scoop: awesome relationships aren’t a stroke of luck. They’ve got a trail you can follow. Stick to these ground rules, and you’re golden.

1. Keep a Level Head in Love

So you’ve heard some folks say, “Dating without marriage in mind is just fooling around,” right? Then there are those who think the opposite—aiming for marriage is the real game.

Both ideas cut deep, yet they’re too one-sided. My two cents? Love doesn’t come with a rulebook or a must-hit target. For instance, thinking that dating must lead to marriage, or dating with zero thought about the chapel bells—both are extremes.

Sure, the ultimate goal of dating could be tying the knot, but the journey shouldn’t be all about the “I dos.” It’s about being true to each other.

If you end up walking down the aisle, great! But if things go south, it’s not the end of the world. That love saga still taught you a bunch—maybe what you want in a partner or how to sail the love boat better next time.

Don’t sweat it over the ones that got away. And definitely don’t get mired in love’s quagmire.

In matters of the heart, roll with the “If it’s meant to be, it’ll be” vibe.

2. Giving In Won’t Buy You Love; It Only Brings Hurt

It’s a common belief that guys have turned colder in love, while gals tend to sink deeper.

One big mistake many women make is, once head over heels, they get into the habit of bending over backward for their partner, losing themselves in the process.

But a heads-up: surrendering without principles only makes you small, chips away at your identity, and leaves you the most bruised.

Let me tell you about my buddy Samantha.

Sam’s got more dating reps than anyone else in the crew, but her track record? Not so stellar. Each relationship reads like a repeat episode.

It often starts with a guy coming on strong. Though initially Sam isn’t all-in, she eventually caves to his sweet advances.

Once the honeymoon phase fades, the guy’s flaws start showing. But by then, love-struck Sam overlooks it all, always putting him first to avoid rocking the boat.

Naturally, the guy gets cocky, starts taking Sam for granted, maybe even plays the field… Despite the red flags, Sam hangs on, hoping for a turnaround. But the storyline remains the same: Sam exhausted, the relationship doomed.

No need for a spoiler alert; you know how those stories end.

Now, not every lady will run into a dud like Sam’s dates, but let’s set things straight: Compromise, sure, but never be a doormat.

Stand your ground, and you’ll live with more pride and allure.

3. Don’t Let Love Hog Your Whole Life

Again, gotta use Sam as the example—the poster child for vanishing act once the dating game begins.

Back when she and this one beau were an item, it was prime time for her grad school exams. But love had her sidetracked, all in on the guy. End result? She flunked the exam; the guy split.

“I’m single, and I can’t even find a soul to talk to,” she once said, all down in the dumps.

Many women slip up here, betting their entire hand on one relationship, only to be left holding nothing.

So, ladies, carve out some me-time. Love is just a part of life—friends, family, and dreams are on your plate, too. Cherish them. This isn’t just dating 101; it applies to marriage as well.

After all, it’s the little things that can make your day. Why pin everything on one person?

4. Don’t Chain Someone Who’s Not Into You to a Permanent Hitching Post

A classic blunder many women make in the love arena is pushing for marriage.

There’s a stark difference between a mutual decision to get hitched and an ultimatum leading to a shotgun wedding.

The one who truly loves you will move mountains to give you the world, wedding ring included. But someone who’s cornered into saying “I do”? Not a recipe for wedded bliss, and often leads to a sad saga.

If you stumble upon a fella reluctant to tie the knot, resist the urge to force it. Twisting someone’s arm won’t bring joy; it’s you strong-arming yourself into staying with someone who’s just not that into you.

And don’t rush someone who’s not ready to say “I do.” Maybe it’s not the right time yet. Maybe what started out as something real could spoil with too much pressure, leading to dodging and cold shoulders.

Remember, relationships aren’t a mad dash—they’re more of a marathon.

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And there you have it: the no-nonsense guide to keeping your love life on the level. Stick to these principles, and you’re far more likely to hit the relationship jackpot.