For a period of time in my life, I had been considered the girl who "always had a boyfriend." I never really got over boys, I would just jump right into a completely different relationship to distract myself from dealing with the pain that came along with change. Last year I put myself through the most unhealthy relationship that anyone could possibly ask for. After that ended, I promised myself that I would not place my happiness in the hands of another person until I was absolutely certain that it would work.

I have been single for a little over eight months now, and according to my friends and family, that is a new record. In these eight months, I have really had time to realize some incredible things about myself, and life in general. I spent roughly two weeks crying over my ex-boyfriend after we broke up, until one day I had an epiphany that it was just about the best thing that could have ever happened to me, and here's why.

I had unlimited time to spend with my friends and family.

When I was stuck in relationship after relationship, I barely made time to hangout with the people that mattered, my family, and my incredible friends. This summer I spent more time with my best friend than we ever had, and it was one of the best summers of my life. I hang out with my friends from high school, and made time for people I wouldn't normally reach out to had my attention been solely on one individual.

I could do whatever I wanted to, without having to respond to anyone.

(Well, except maybe my mom.) If I wanted to drive down the shore at 10 p.m. on a Wednesday night, I could, and didn't have to worry about upsetting anyone. If I make a complete IDIOT out of myself at the bar with my best friends, I can, without a response from anyone. (Besides the bouncers I presume). I can wear whatever I want (and yes that WAS a problem before), dance with whoever I want, and get home from frats at ungodly hours of the night.

I had time to figure myself out.

This past year, I went above and beyond chasing down my goals. Without having to worry about another person's schedule conflicting with mine, I was able to land the internship of my dreams, work a part-time job, AND maintain good grades all at the same time.

I became closer to my other single friends.

When I had a significant other, it seemed as though I only surrounded myself with other people in relationships. Single life with single friends is just about the greatest thing college has offered me. It left me time to make stupid mistakes, kissing stupid boys that my friends and I can laugh about in the morning. (Sorry, mom.)

I created my own happiness.

I no longer need the satisfaction of a temporary "I love you." I've grown so fond of the true love I've discovered between me and my friends. I've built some incredible friendships I wouldn't have if I had a significant other. I now surround myself with people I know won't eventually get tired of me. It is truly amazing to see what kind of doors open for you when there's no longer a ball and chain wrapped around your ankles holding you back.