Seeking a partner is an active process. In most cases, you can’t be waiting around until someone suddenly pops in. It may never happen and it’s setting a limitation on finding a partner. Here are some common excuses that people use that keeping them single.

There is no one they like around

If you don’t have anyone you find as a prospective partner then you need to widen your circle. Without our own search, we are limited to interacting with family relations and friends. To widen your circle go out to events that interest you such as a concert, hiking trips or even a singles meeting. Many online sites such as meetup.com have events in your local area or groups with similar interests and endeavors. You can even set up your own events. Get out there be active! Meet new people and potential partners.

Excessive Flirting and Being Indirect

Two people can flirt and be indirect when they like someone. This can be someone getting you coffee the office every morning. Or they show up often at the same places you are. This can be fun but it can be misleading or annoying if it goes on for too long. Flirting is indirect because it can save someone from rejection and being hurt. If you’re done with flirting or mixed signals just be direct and ask if they would like to go out sometime. Less flirting more doing!

I Have Kids!

Having kids is a setback but only if you let it be. Often people need babysitting so they can go on dates. Before getting into a proper relationship mention that you have kids. If the other person is understanding and wants to be with you they will try it out. Bring up that you have kids right away and not later to avoid wasting time. Also, set up date nights in advance so you can arrange to have a babysitter for that time. There are many babysitting services available.

Dating Sites Have Bad Reputations

Dating sites are good resources if you are cautious and use them properly. Most people don’t know that 1 in 5 couples meet online. There are different dating sites to choose from and they have more tools than just filling out a profile. Many of the biographies are specific and you can use that to narrow down your search. For instances you can narrow down prospective partners based on interest, body type if they have kids, what type of relationship they are looking for and if they want kids.

pof.com (plenty of fish) makes you fill out a quiz to match you with similar personality types. They then give you top 10 matches. Their analysis shows that most people match up with these. Other websites may offer similar features.

So be active in your search and don’t use excuses. Get out there and find that special someone!