To the Guy Who Loves Me Next,

I’m going to come right out and say this: good luck.

I’ve learned a lot of things about not only the world but, myself in the past few months. The most important of lessons I’ve learned is that I don’t need you or anyone else to help determine my self worth. I am perfectly capable of living a full and exciting life without you or any other man for that matter.

Over the past few months, I’ve learned it’s easy to do cute “couple like” things on my own. I can go for ice cream, chase the sunset, or see a movie with just myself. I don’t need you to validate cute life experiences. I’m not saying it wouldn’t be nice to have your company but, the experience won’t be any less amazing without you.

I’ve also learned, I don’t have to have you to clean up nicely. I don’t have to justify shaving my legs in the middle of winter with “I feel bad for my boyfriend” but with “wow I love my soft legs.” I also don’t need you telling me how amazing I look in that tight, black, dress. I know I look amazing that’s why I bought it, *insert hair flip*. And if anyone wonders why my eyebrows are always on point it’s for my selfies not your acceptance.

Just know that even though I say don’t need you it doesn’t mean I don’t love you, it just means I also love myself. I’ve learned that the most important person in my life is myself. If you aren’t treating me the way I deserve to be treated I will not sit around dealing with your behavior. I know my self worth and I can and will leave anyone who does not realize it too.

Over the past few months, I have not just fallen in love with myself but, with my friends and my life as well. You will be important to me but, know if my friend calls freaking out over a breakup or the stress of her upcoming final I will drop everything to be by her side. I’ve become accustomed to my schedule and while you will be a priority my friends and myself will be as well.

Don’t even get me started on gifts. As much as every girl loves to be spoiled, I don’t need you to do that! If you’re working crazy hours just so you can afford to take me out on expensive dates or to drop hundreds of dollars on me, you’re not living. Don’t get me wrong, I love new shoes or Texas Roadhouse as much as the next girl but, I will love you more. And with love comes knowing that you’d much rather be hanging out with your friends than bussing tables for a measly $9.60 an hour. All I ask for is your attention when I do see you or a simple text telling me how your day was, the material items mean nothing.

So to the one who loves me next honestly, good luck. You’re getting much more than a girlfriend. You’re getting an independent, hard working, loving woman. A girl who will chase the sunrise with her dog or lay in bed all day Saturday watching Grey’s Anatomy. A woman with a lot of love to give but, also a lot of self worth. Someone who is willing to compromise but not degrade herself or her own ambitions for any man.

So here’s to you, for being willing to love a stubborn lady like me.

Sincerely,