But First, Be Alone

Dear Daughter,

From a young age, when you're first introduced to the idea of princesses and fairytale endings, you'll find yourself creating an image of your own "Prince Charming". His face will probably change over the years, morphing into that of your latest crush. But the idea that there's someone out there who will sweep you off your feet and carry you into your perfect future will remain.

As a little girl, you'll subconsciously start building your dreams around this imaginary man. This loving, caring, handsome model of perfection. And while many are lucky to find a version of their own Prince Charming in real life, the idea of building your future around someone else is one that I'd like to challenge.

While I wish more than anything that you find the perfect person for you - one who you can build a more fulfilled and beautiful life with - I wish first for you to be alone. As scary as that might sound, it's only after finding comfort in being alone that you'll confidently know whether you're choosing to be with someone out of love or loneliness.

So, in support of the single life, I present to you the top reasons why being "alone" is amazing…and worth exploring, for at least a brief time in your life.

Being single gives you time to discover your passions.

You'll learn what your deal breakers are, which will help you set your standards.

You'll say yes to things you never thought you would,

and will have crazy stories worth sharing because of this.

You will be pushed to your limits, learning just how far your body and mind can go.

You'll travel places you've never been,

and will meet people who will change the course of your life.

Being alone will strengthen your desire to do great things,

and will help you appreciate the beauty around you.

It will develop your sense of purpose,

and will help you get comfortable with who you are.

You'll grow into the kind of person you want to be with,

and will have the confidence to wait for this person

(who will likely be traveling a similar path).

Being single will give you the time to focus on your career,

So that you can build one worth being proud of.

It will give you the independence to make decisions based on your own feelings.

You will learn to trust your gut, take chances,

and get back up when you fall down.

You'll learn to love music, and everything it makes you feel -

For when you're alone, you'll listen more than you'll talk

(unless you're talking to your dog, which is totally acceptable).

Having no one to depend on but yourself will encourage you to try things you might not otherwise -

To build something new, and to fix what's broken

(even if you have no idea where to start).

It will grow you into the person you were meant to be,

so that you're ready for the one who sees all that you are,

And loves you because of it.

Ironically, I believe being alone is the key to finding the perfect person to spend your life with. So hold out on settling down until you've experienced all of the benefits being alone has to offer. For when your Prince Charming does come around, he won't be "carrying you into your perfect future", but instead you'll walk hand in hand, building one together. One that's bigger and better than anything you ever dreamed of.