Are You your own Worst Enemy when it comes to Dating?

We've all been there: your love life doesn't go according to plan, and you find yourself back in the dating game again. What can you do to prevent yourself from falling into a pattern of hopelessness? And does this type of thinking prevent you from finding a good relationship?

The short answer is, our thoughts and actions influence our lives and potential opportunities. Have you ever been around someone who was continually depressed or negative about her personal life? It's hard to attract a good relationship in this state.

Following are some actions and attitudes that may be sabotaging your love life without you realizing it:

Do you stay in bad relationships, or continue to date people who aren't compatible with you, just to avoid being alone? If this is a pattern, it's time to break things off and spend some time soul-searching on your own. You'll have a hard time recognizing and being available to Mr. Right if you're still involved with someone else.

Do you think "all the good ones are taken"? This is another fallacy, even if you feel like you are surrounded by couples. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 42% of adults over age 18 in the U.S. are single. Surely some of them are great catches! Don't fall for this line of thinking, or you will have a hard time opening up to new people you meet.

Being critical of every new date you meet. Do you find yourself listing off all of the things you don't like about the person you're dating? Instead of concentrating on all of the things you don't want, try recognizing aspects of the other person you find attractive. Make a list of everything you see that you do want. This way, you are able to open up and attract more compatible dates.

Avoiding social situations. If you feel depressed because you are alone, you won't be doing yourself any favors by holing up in your apartment and avoiding parties, dates, and gatherings with friends. Find the motivation to put yourself out there. Accept invitations, mingle with new people, and leave the door open for new relationships to come into your life.