Being the only single person in a group of friends could be really tough to deal with. First and foremost, the entire dynamic of the group changes when all of your friends get engaged -- or at least involved in a committed relationship. You can't hang out as often as you want, and group discussions revolve around each other's relationship problems. For your friends, it's still the same; but for you, a lot of things will never be the same again.
The situation is inevitable especially as you get older and people start settling down with their partners. What can you do to deal instead of stressing about being single? Here are some steps that you can follow when you're the last unattached person in your friend circle.
1. Don't make it a big deal
If you are the only single person among your friends, it's not your fault. Stop blaming yourself that you failed to keep up. Don't confine yourself to the standards and norms set by society. It's your life, and you should decide whether you are ready for a relationship. Remember that it's not a contest. Understand that the situation may be a little weird, but it's not really that bad.
2. Socialize with your committed friends
When all your friends go on to plan the future with their respective partners, you lose touch with them due to the obvious reasons. Their priorities change and their time is allotted to their significant others. However, you can always take out time for them and meet them occasionally.
You should also get to know your friends' partners and make new memories. They may have got more important things to do but they are still the same friends for you. Show them that you value them, and they will always have your back. Wish them luck and be happy for the good things happening in their life.
3. Stay away from smug couples
There are couples who comfort you when you feel lonely and give you advice when you need it. But some couples can annoy you by constant blabbering about their own relationship. Such people are called smug couples and if you are single, you must stay away from them.
They would keep reminding you to feel better and tell you that they are the ideal couple. They don't do it because they think they are perfect, they do it just to feel better about their relationship. But you don't have to listen to them. Being in a happy relationship or being single doesn't make your life a success or a failure.
4. Talk to your friends about it
If you are having a tough time adapting to all the changes in your friend circle, talk to your friends about it. When all your friends are talking about their respective partners while you realize how alone you are in your life, it doesn't have to be that way. Don't shy away from admitting that you are feeling left out.
This would help your friends acknowledge what you are going through. They would address your problems and would assure you that your bond and equation will never change. If you keep things to yourself your behavior may change over time and you'll drift away from your friends. So, it's better to trust them and share things that do matter.
5. Don't rush into anything
Just because all your friends are enjoying a relationship, it doesn't mean that you should do it too. The only logical reason to start a relationship is that you should want to do it. You can't find your dream partner overnight. Give it some time and handle the situation with maturity. Don't jump into a new relationship if you're not ready for it.
6. Utilize your time
When you are the only single person in your group you will be often ditched by your committed friends at the very last minute. So, be prepared for such situations. And when it happens, be your own company. Go out, visit places, dine at your favorite restaurants or attend shows. Simply, do everything on your own and don't depend on anyone else for having a great time. You can choose the place where you want to go and even leave whenever you want to. This would help you shed all the inhibitions and you would be able to not only accept the change but also enjoy it.