You may feel like you're ready to be in a relationship, but have you really thought about it? Getting to know yourself is the first step to take before getting to know someone else - remember, everything you do today will contribute to helping you be ready for your future partner.  New aged-stuff aside, how do you start working on a "better you"?  Start by asking yourself some simple questions (but be honest with how you answer): 

§                                 Do I know who I am and what I want in a relationship?  

§                                 Do I have the time and energy to give to another person?  

§                                 Am I willing to listen when my partner wants to discuss something - even if it means not watching  my favorite show or missing a chance to hang out with friends? 

 §                                 Do I want my partner to spend every free second with me?  

§                                 Do I want to help my partner feel secure and comfortable regardless of the situation we're in?

§                                 Can I handle problems and make safe, responsible decisions?  

§                                 Can I stand up for my values and beliefs, even if my partner disagrees?  

§                                 Am I able to keep promises and things told to me in confidence?  

§                                 Does the idea of my partner having friends of the opposite sex make me nervous?  

§                                 Am I feeling pressured to be in a relationship just because everyone else is in one?

§                                 Am I ready to share my thoughts, feelings, and emotions with another person?  These are just a few ideas of ways that you can look inside and get to know yourself better. What are some other questions that you should consider before you're ready to be in a relationship?   

 BOTTOM LINE

The ability to experience close friendships is often the first step toward understanding more significant relationships later in life. If you're not in a relationship, take this time both to better understand yourself and to build your friendships. Opening yourself up to another person and feeling comfortable with others begins with feeling good about who you are as a person. This means having a positive but realistic idea of the character qualities and skills you bring into a relationship.