Being single has both its ups and downs, and during the latter it can sometimes be a downright bummer. It’s even worse when some of your coupled friends have a say about your single status that sounds more annoying than comforting. We’ve got six sayings that may sound familiar…

1. “Why are you still single?”
That is probably the biggest question asked to single women… and one that is difficult to answer. It’s something single women often ask themselves, so how can there possibly be an answer for someone else? Plus, this question often has an accusatory sound to it that it often hurts to hear. Don’t let it get you down…  merely respond that you’re too busy being awesome!

2. “You’re not trying hard enough.”
This comment can be a valid one: after all, if you’re just sitting at home waiting for love to find you, then you’ll be waiting forever. However, even women who make quite a bit of effort, such as joining online dating sites or dressing up and going out on weekends, end up hearing this. And that’s when it can get annoying: it’s as if all the effort, all those dates, still isn’t considered “enough”. Perhaps wearing a “Single and Looking” sandwich board on a busy street corner would be…

3. “You’re just too picky.”
We all have standards when it comes to the men we want to date and, ultimately, have a relationship with. Admittedly, some of those can be high enough that they need to be brought back down to reality, i.e. a man’s income or the type of car he drives. But you shouldn’t have to compromise on the deal breakers you are firm about and settle for something less than you deserve, even if it’s considered being “picky”.

4. “It’ll happen.”
“Gee, thanks,” you’re likely thinking. “Then I’ll just sit right here and wait until love slaps me in the face.” This comment feels like the direct opposite of “You’re not trying hard enough,” and the contradiction can be frustrating. If you’re the proactive type who likes putting in the work to achieve anything in life and love, just waiting for something to happen on its own is not an option.

5. “Do you want to hang with us tonight?”
Okay, spending time with your friend and her significant other isn’t all bad, since you normally have a nice time when you get together. However, receiving such a last-minute invite to what might have original been a night meant for two can make any single lady feel like a third wheel. Plus, not having a man to spend time with some nights doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t do something solo.

6. “I know this great guy…”
Ah, the blind date. Your coupled friend likely feels “sorry” for your single status and constantly tries to hook you up with any and every single man in her midst. It can be a bit humiliating, as if you’re no good at finding a man, so she has taken it upon herself to find one for you. However, don’t decline this date opportunity; it falls under the not-trying-enough category! Just put on the outfit that makes you feel fabulous, have your winning flirting moves on-hand, and who knows? Maybe your gal pal was right about him and you’ll be up for a second date!