Paging Pri’s Answer to Twenty-Something’s Looking for Love

by Priya Kaur

It’s hammer time when you are a twenty-something, Desi girl, done with college, beginning her career, but not engaged. You are surrounded by a sea of people whom you have grown up with, who are either engaged, getting engaged or are already married. You are beginning to feel the pressure, not only from your own family, but your friend’s parents as well.

The saying, “Beti, why not consider settling down now,” has been molded in your head and has been put on repeat.

Does any of the above sound familiar? I know, for me, I am probably one of the few left in my friend’s circle who is not in a serious relationship, engaged or married. My parents look at me like I am crazy, picky and stubborn. I am sure my friend’s parents have some sort of opinion as to why I am not in a relationship either.

I just finished graduate school, and I am making a name for myself in my career. I’m just beginning my life. I want to travel the world, and check items off my bucket list.

Now, don’t get wrong, I do want to settle down, I just haven’t met the right person. I am stubborn, picky, and occasionally crazy. I know that I can be a handful, at times, but I also know that if I cannot be independent, and rely on myself first then I cannot rely on someone else. I love myself, and that’s how I know I’m open to loving someone else.

I look around, and I think to myself, I know what I want out of life, and I know what I want, for the most part, from a partner. The fact of the matter is, you have to find the right person. And the question is, how do you find that person? There are plenty of different ways meet people in today’s society, but how do you find a way that works for you?

The ideal way to meet a person is like a fairytale, but in reality, you have to be willing to put yourself out there, in order to take a chance on love.

There are going to be people who tell you that online dating is for desperate people, or people who don’t have a chance of meeting their future soulmate offline.

In my opinion, I can honestly say, I used to think that online dating was a creepy way of meeting people. However, as time as progressed, I have noticed, it is just another way of becoming acquainted with people you would not meet organically.

Some advice I can give to those looking for love but are scared to put themselves out there is, do not wait for Prince Charming to come knocking on your door, instead be your most confident self and break out of the antiquated thought process that you should be approached first.

Yes, any time you place yourself at vulnerability, it is a scary task, however if you are not willing to get hurt then you are not willing to be loved.

I’ve had my heart broken, to the point where I never thought I could open my heart up to anyone again. But as cliche as it may sound, time truly does heal all wounds. You have to take a step back and place things into perspective  and think about what you want from a husband/partner.

Be open to putting yourself out there, and you never know what will happen, after all Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.