Why, as women, do we feel the need to have a boyfriend? Is it because since birth society has ingrained in our minds that we MUST be in a relationship? Now don't get me wrong, I'm all for feminism, but I'm not the biggest feminist you'll ever meet. I, personally, don't like being told what I can and cannot do. I don't like being told what I HAVE to do. I'm 21 years old, and I can live my life any way that I choose. I don't have a boyfriend and that's OK.

I'm tired of people saying things to me like "How are you still single? You're amazing!" And they say this to me as if my self-worth is measured by whether I let a man take the front seat in my life or not.

It may have taken me a while, but I know my self-worth. I'm better than waiting for a guy to text me back. I'm better than a guy cat-calling me as if I'm some sort of possession. And I'm better than the label society puts on me for being single.

I value myself and guard my heart because it's been hurt before, and I'm not willing to just hand it over to someone. I am not defined by my relationship status, and not having a date doesn't reflect on my character as a person.

I was raised to be a strong, independent woman. Don't get me wrong, having a boyfriend is wonderful and fun and exciting. And sometimes I'd like to have someone to share memories with. But I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself without a boyfriend. And guess what? That's OK.

I won't settle for any random guy who comes along and compliments me. Talk is cheap, and I'm better than that.

With that being said, have faith. The right one will come along. Now, that may mean spending a season of your life without a man, but it will be OK.

Don't let anyone make you feel less about yourself because you aren't in a relationship. Pretty, intelligent, strong, and confident women should be able to enjoy being on their own without being questioned for it.