You're here for a reason, and there's nothing to be ashamed of (or maybe there is…). Being single is on the rise, representing 33.1% of the Mexican population (according to INEGI). And while being single isn't the same as being alone, it hurts not to have a warm shoulder to lean on on the sofa as the sunset fades. I understand the situation, and that's why, putting aside the cliché "you deserve better," I'll give you tips to find a partner who doesn't break the world's ethical and moral laws (and, incidentally, doesn't break up homes).

Quality Over Quantity

Yes, we're going to get mathematical. Time is crucial for creating a bond that overcomes adversity. You need to get to know someone, feel the warmth of conversations, their skin, and your cheeks when they flatter you. Isn't it better when this happens, both in the first and the last hour of a date? A married person barely has time for two hours of conversation, so having a partner who spends more time with you is essential. Hearing: "I'm not in a hurry, we can keep holding hands until nightfall," is much better than: "I have to go, today is my wedding anniversary."

Hide-and-Seek is Exciting... Until You Get Caught

"Ready or not, here I come". It's cool to hide in an uncomfortable position waiting to be found. I understand that feeling of adrenaline that's addictive and fun, but it lasts a very short time and you want to repeat it again and again, until it's your turn to catch. Instead of staying under the bed, where, literally, everyone knows you're there, it's better to run freely and stretch those muscles.

The Scene That Won't Get You an Oscar

You're sitting in the dermatologist's waiting room; you want the outside to feel as cheerful as your inside, and for the butterflies in your stomach to turn into retinol for your skin. The elevator dings and the next thing you hear is: "Are you 'the person'?" Believe me, unless you're in the hallways of an acting school, no one will think those screams are part of a rehearsal. This canonical event will be part of your life forever (and will also be recorded by security cameras). If you can live through the "scene" stage, I recommend skipping it.

Can Anyone Think About You?

No. It's not going to change. Next question. The infinite loop of promises, interrupted by "I'll cling to that person so much, even if I hate them later and they get in my way," isn't going to work. And even if it does work, living in an eternal state of alertness and psychosis, hoping that they won't cheat on you like they cheated on the person they left for you, is horrible. Where did having a real love go, always so natural and full of giving? We all deserve one.

Time to investigate; there's no rush and plenty to choose from. If desperation ever gets the best of you, or you enjoy feeling the competition of "who's better," you can sign up for Pilates or functional training where, in addition to calming those urges for adventure, you'll get a great body and, who knows, you might meet the love of your life. A free love, one that makes you feel like a first-place trophy. Want more advice? Vent at @thewalk.com.mx, and we promise not to write an article about your case.