Are you settling or settling down?

Dear "It" Girl,

Sometimes, women in their twenties think that they have all the time in the world before they have to worry about settling down with Mr. Right. However, youth really is wasted on the young. When it comes to finding a future hubby, this translates into women wasting their most precious years with poor excuses for men. While it is wise to play the field with a variety of guys to find out your dislikes and likes, consider having a shorter run with a guy you know barely measures up. Please, be careful about investing in potential.

If your goal is to find a serious relationship in the near future, you must realize that the sun doesn't shine forever. Men are visual creatures and things are going to start sagging before you know it. Why not capitalize on your good looks and youthful energy while you still can?! Your whole life is ahead of you. Who you are with now can seriously impact your future.

Don't waste your prime with men who don't value you for who you are. Say goodbye to the ones who don't make the effort to keep you happy. If he doesn't ask how your day was and kiss you like he means it, you could be missing out on someone who will. What is it that you are getting out of remaining in this relationship? If you aren't getting much, but you can't shake your affection for Mr. Right Now, at the very least, make sure your options are open. Ask yourself the ultimate question: Do you want to settle or settle down?

Love, Rachel Russo, MS, MFT