There are certain times of the year when being single can be especially difficult. Long holiday weekends, Valentine’s Day, family vacations, and key social events can often feel like cozy couples or family arrangements, and at such times, being single can feel particularly lonely and unloved.

The fact that the days and weeks after Christmas and the holidays are two of the busiest times of the year for divorce lawyers can do little to bring comfort or alleviate loneliness and the feeling that we’re missing out on something special. Sometimes we can sigh and feel like we really don’t want to be single anymore.

– Many people who do not want to be single choose to join online dating sites and these can be an efficient way to find someone with similar tastes and interests who fit our criteria. These sites often offer good practical advice when making your presentations. For example, be careful about how much personal information you divulge, and limit a first meeting to one hour so neither person feels trapped for an indefinite period of time. If you hit it off, your next date can last as long as you want.

– Stay safe. Trust your instincts if something feels off and arrange for the first meeting to be in a public place. An increasing number of people are using these sites successfully, but it’s still a good idea to tell a friend where you’re going and maybe have them call you after an hour to make sure you’re okay.

– Accept if friends, colleagues or someone in your circle offers to introduce you to someone you know. The person may be a good fit for you, so why not agree to meet them? Even if nothing comes out, you’ve put someone new in and you’ve done something different. Being able to relate to and talk to new people is an important skill that can be lost quickly if we’re out of practice and haven’t been out for a while.

– Manage your expectations. It can be exciting to have fireworks go off when we first meet someone, but don’t invest all your hopes and dreams into a new relationship right from the start. Having a nice hour or two for coffee, lunch, or a walk can be a great way to get to know someone initially, and can lead to making a special new friend, even if they don’t become a lover.

– Make invitations. Be proactive and stay on the mailing lists for what’s happening locally. You can then organize trips to shows, exhibitions and events. Join in when others do the same and invite you to join them. Circulate regularly so that you can add to your network of contacts while having a good social life and keeping abreast of what is happening around you.

– Do things you enjoy. Volunteering, joining a class, walking in a group, or doing an activity you enjoy keeps you busy and also allows you to mingle and meet with people who have similar interests as you. Enjoy getting together, sharing activities, becoming friends and little by little you can develop a loving relationship with someone with whom you have already established a fun connection.

– Don’t try too hard. Relax and be yourself. And remember that being single is not the end of the world! Many people in unhappy relationships no doubt envy you for your freedom and ability to do what you want when you want.

Appreciate each stage of life and enjoy the opportunities that come your way. Single or with a partner, each situation has its pros and cons. Being comfortable with yourself and your life takes the pressure off finding a new partner and often leads to a new relationship when you least expect it.