Being “The Single Friend” Really Sucks Sometimes

Sure, your coupled-up friends keep telling you that you’re single and fabulous. And you are, kind of. You’re single. And yeah, let’s just say it: you’re pretty fabulous. But sometimes, that doesn’t mean that being single is fabulous. Sometimes being “the single friend” really just plain sucks.

You’re always listening to preachy monologues about why you’re single. You just keep setting your standards way too high! (Um, no, insisting on someone who is not a loser and who you’re attracted to is not unreasonable.) You just need to put yourself out there more! (As if spending a ridiculous amount of time on three dating websites isn’t enough). Thank you for the unsolicited advice, but no thank you.

  1. Last year, your BFF totally would have high-fived you when you dished the details about the gym hottie who finally picked up on all of your smiles. Now that she’s been with the same guy forever, though, she just gives you a slightly condescending, slightly pitying look and asks you if you really think that was a good idea. Um, yes?
  2. It’s bad enough that you deal with it from your own parents. But when your roommate’s mom comes to visit and asks you if you’ve met “a nice man friend” yet, it’s just rubbing salt in the wound.
  3. Friends keep trying to set you up with people they know that are just so obviously not a match for you. You can’t help but think that they just want credit from both sides for a favor without really putting much thought into it.
  4. You’re just as smart, funny, and creative as they are. Why are you the odd person out? Where do you come up short? It’s hard to shake the competitive vibes when it feels like people are “ahead” of you.
  5. Another wedding? Really? Your gay best friend is getting sick of renting tuxes.
  6. Oh, you’re not bringing a plus one? We’ll just stick you wherever we happen to have that one leftover spot that we need to fill. Have fun talking to Great Aunt Sally!
  7. Wait, what’s the difference again between an engagement party and a bridal shower? You’re happy to help your friends celebrate, but sometimes you wish someone would buy you some kitchen gear for a change.
Jessica Levy is a freelance blogger and content writer. She’s also a politics junkie, a fledgling foodie, and a frequent traveler. She has lived in Morocco, Israel, India, and Barbados, and never wants to be cold again. Follow her on Twitter!
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