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Old Mar 22, 2015, 10:31 PM
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ptangptang ptangptang is offline
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Member Since: Oct 2012
Location: uk
Posts: 990
Quote:
Originally Posted by bearpaws View Post
I know it's easier said than done, but for me a major shift in focus was in order a number of years ago when I found myself in a similar place. I don't think I was quite as deadset on finding a partner as you may be, but it still consumed me at times. I was on a couple of niche sites for people dealing with issues in life and couldn't shake the feeling that the vast majority of the people there were there as a last resort - like there was a genuineness lacking because so many were desperate to jump on the first thing that winked back. I observed for a little while, kind of saw those internet fantasies come to fruition for people hard and fast and then more often than not, crash and burn (though it does work for some!)... and after my observations and one or two tries at it myself, I started feeling like it wasn't healthy. The internet fantasy thing. Meeting people on the internet to transition into real life is great, even when it's a bit dragged out, but it takes luck and a real special connection to make it work because you never truly know what the person is like or what they're doing on the other side of that screen. The infatuation tended to make me and those around me more ill.

So, I personally switched focus. Improving the things I could improve. Writing about different topics. Finding a couple of new hobbies. I realize all of that is way easier said than done when it comes to depression but further developing yourself can really only further your chance at finding the right person when the time comes. I was with a girl for 7 years and have been single for 5 since and both experiences have really helped me grow as a person in equal amounts and to be aware of what it really is I need in life rather than stuffing those ugly feelings and realizations down with food, people, self-destructive behaviors and so on.

Our desperation (mine in the past included) is generally not attractive. You gotta put you first and have faith in the girl you haven't met yet that she'll be there for you when the time is ready. In the meantime, you can only control what you do.

Forgive me if this came off as preachy. I've just been in your position and I regret not spending that energy on something else. A partner may pop up and they may not, but the time I've spent learning to accept and enjoy my own company has probably saved my life. Of course everyone's mileage may vary. Take care of yourself. Maybe have a heart to heart with yourself and really examine where these feelings stem from if you feel you can.
Excellent post. The more you get out and do things the more chance there is of meeting someone instead of wasting time and energy online trying to impress women who have an over inflated opinion of themselves and have totally unrealistic expectations. Only my opinion, of course. It's hard going around by yourself and rather soul destroying, but what's the alternative. Life sucks whatever you do.