How or why you're still single in your thirties (or older) isn't important. There are so many reasons the most important of which may be that you, unlike perhaps the majority, know what you want both long and short-term. You're smart enough not to be trapped into something you don't want.

            If you're really looking to tie the knot, if you're looking for a serious relationship, you may want to look beyond the bar scene. That's why online dating works so well. You can screen for exactly the kind of person you're looking for not only in terms of age, interests, etc. But also in terms of the kind of relationships they're looking for.

            Dating either above or below your age bracket needs careful consideration. Someone a great deal younger can lack the maturity that comes only from life experience. People in their twenties are often still trying to figure it all out about where they fit in. They're not sure about what it is they want in life. And what about children? Do they want any? In any age bracket it's still something that needs to be discussed.

            On the other hand, dating someone much older has its share of problems as well. Older people tend to have already decided what they want out of life and have become well settled in their ways. They're generally not very willing to change course at this point in their lives. And there are certain generation gaps that have to be considered. Your older lover may not appreciate going to see rock concerts. But with patience and understanding many of the obstacles of dating outside your age group can be overcome.

            Have you thought about your finances? By the time you're in your thirties, you've already worked ten years Are you willing to support someone else's children? Will your prospective spouse contribute financially? Are you willing to give up half of your money in a divorce if it should ever come to that? It's up to you to decide what's important. Seeking the advice of an attorney before jumping into anything may not be a bad idea.

            And finally, if you have children you need to be conscious of the kind of people that are entering your life and theirs. You need to stick to the values you want your children to follow in their lives. You're a role model, and how you and your prospective spouse conduct yourselves does make an impression on your children.

            In short, don't beat yourself up for still being single and in your thirties. There's a lot to think about So be smart and be patient. Be open to meeting the right one but don't allow yourself to be taken advantage of. And while you're waiting, have fun in pursuing your romantic dreams.