here's some advice from Cheryl Richardson, author of the book "Stand Up For Your Life"-- She says, get tough on yourself. It may be easy to rattle off a list of what you want in a mate, but living up to that ideal personally is harder. Instead of looking for a partner with a great sense of humor and killer abs, develop those qualities in yourself. You'll increase your chances of meeting that person and have more fun in the meantime. Next, figure out what you're looking for in a relationship   marriage? A baby? A travel buddy?
Marriage therapist Catherine Burton says women often try to fit their lives into someone else's. Instead, be honest about what you want so you can find someone who shares those goals.