You shop around for bargains when it comes to buying a car or new outfit, so you know a little legwork and patience can work in your favor. Why not apply that attitude to your love life? Even if you’re desperate to find love, don’t accept the first prospect that comes your way. Being alone is a lot better than spending time with someone who doesn’t interest you in the least. Do your research first. Figure out what you really value in a partner.

Just like everything else in life, love comes and goes in cycles. Sometimes you’re up, sometimes you’re down, and sometimes you’re stuck in a holding pattern. Accept the changes and you can be ahead of the game.

Monitoring the vital stats of a relationship is important to maintaining its health, but you can sometimes spend too much time worrying about stuff that may not exist. Take a breather.

Being overwhelmed has you hiding behind your armor. Or is it your shell? Whatever it is that you imagine is protecting you, it’s time to come out and deal with reality.