Before I go on, let me clarify one thing. This article is not for those who believe that love is fake. This article is not for those who actively preach that we don't need love to be happy. I understand the whole "I am an independent woman who don't need no man" phrase. It's true, you don't need a significant other to be happy. But, it is nice, and you can't shame those who want a relationship -- or to find love. (Like I say, peace, love, positivity. Love is an amazing part of life.)

So, you are definitely not alone. It can get rough seeing those around you having success with people they have interest in, when you're wondering where you are going wrong. Or watching your friends excitedly buying their significant others presents. But hey, your time will come! Love can find you in the most unexpected places. It is better to be with someone you really enjoy spending time with, than settling for a friend, or even someone you just hook up with. (A friend with benefits can only go so far.) It can be tempting, because you just want that cute relationship that's blasted in your face through TV, music, movies, and social media. That's not how it always goes.

I know of people who are currently struggling with changing the course of their love lives (which is what inspired me to write this). They don't have much trouble finding someone to mess around with, but when it comes to relationships, they can't seem to find someone they're truly into — or that's into them. First of all, I can tell you one thing. People are people. If you find someone to randomly hook up with, chances are he or she isn't looking for more than that. They probably don't care all that much about what makes you you. Try your best not to take anything someone like that says seriously. Don't go down that road expecting much more than what's presented to you. (Unless you somehow get lucky and your Tinder date becomes more than a one-night stand. Good for you! That's not the case for most people.)

Rather than focusing on finding a relationship, focus on making friendships. Enjoy your time with people. If there's someone that catches your eye, try to befriend them. Get to know them. Laugh and talk about things you're interested in. You are who you put yourself out to be. Simply put, be yourself. Get yourself out there. My good friend asked me once, "What if no one wants just plain old me?" Well, I believe there is always someone who wants "just plain old" you. Quite frankly, plain old you is not plain at all. There are so many things about you that make you different from everyone else out there. You just have to bring that out. Unfortunately, it's easier said than done. It's not always easy to catch yourself acting like someone you're not. It happens more often than you may notice — in order to make a friend happy or to subconsciously impress someone you're interested in. Try to be mindful and make sure you say what you're thinking, not what you think someone wants you to say.

It becomes okay when certain people drift or even those who grow closer, because you know they have been exposed to who you actually are. If you're not for them, it's okay, because you simply cannot be what everyone wants or needs. Anyone that doesn't want to listen to or be with "plain old you" isn't worth your time. Plain old you is treasure waiting to be discovered.