Many single adults find themselves wondering when or if their “Mr. or Mrs. Right” will appear. The waiting period can be difficult, often filled with moments of frustration, loneliness, or even despair. But what if this season of singleness isn’t simply a time of waiting for your future spouse, but an opportunity to become the best version of yourself? Instead of wishing for something different, now is the perfect time to grow, develop the virtues you desire in a spouse, and focus on your journey toward holiness.

Here’s how you can embrace this season of life, grow in virtue, and foster a mindset of peace and purpose as you work toward becoming the person God calls you to be.

Embrace Your Current Season with Gratitude

It’s easy to feel like your life is “on hold” when you’re single, constantly waiting for the next chapter to begin. However, the season you’re in right now has its own beauty and purpose. Instead of focusing on what’s missing, take time to appreciate the opportunities that singleness provides—time for personal growth, freedom to pursue passions, and space to build a strong relationship with God.

Gratitude can shift your perspective from one of lack to one of abundance. Each day, take time to reflect on the blessings in your life and give thanks for the unique opportunities you have in this season. Gratitude doesn’t mean you stop desiring marriage, but it allows you to find peace in the present.

Cultivate the Virtues You Seek in a Spouse

If you’re looking for a spouse with qualities like kindness, patience, faithfulness, and self-control, ask yourself: Am I developing these virtues in my own life? While waiting for the right person, focus on fostering the very qualities you hope to find in someone else. Work on becoming the person you want to attract.

Here are a few ways to actively cultivate virtues:

• Self-gift: Practice kindness toward yourself and others, both in your actions and in your words. Volunteer, serve others, or simply extend compassion in your daily life.
• Patience: Learn to wait with grace. Trust God’s timing, even when it doesn’t align with your expectations. Patience is key in relationships, so this virtue will serve you well both now and in the future.
• Self-control: Work on disciplining your mind, body, and spirit. Whether it’s through physical fitness, fasting, or self-improvement, developing self-control will strengthen your character.

By growing in virtue, you not only prepare yourself for a future relationship, but you also enrich your current life, deepening your connection with God and others.

Pursue Your Passions and Purpose

One of the greatest advantages of being single is the time and freedom to pursue your passions. Instead of waiting for your life to start after you meet someone, use this time to discover and develop your talents, explore new interests, and contribute to your community.

• Focus on your career or education: Invest in your professional and personal growth. Take courses, pursue new skills, or work toward a promotion. Build a fulfilling career that aligns with your values and passions.
• Develop hobbies: Whether it’s art, music, fitness, or travel, engaging in hobbies brings joy and fulfillment. Plus, it often leads to meeting new people who share similar interests.
• Serve others: Find ways to give back to your community, whether through volunteering or participating in church ministries. Not only does this allow you to make a positive impact, but it also helps you grow in love and compassion.

By actively pursuing your passions, you enrich your life and open yourself to opportunities that could even lead to meeting someone along the way.

Invest in Meaningful Relationships

While it’s easy to focus on romantic relationships, don’t overlook the importance of building strong, supportive friendships. Surround yourself with people who encourage you, challenge you, and inspire you to grow in faith and virtue.

• Strengthen family bonds: Your family is your first community. Take time to nurture those relationships, share meaningful experiences, and grow in love.
• Build a spiritual community: Join faith-based groups, Bible studies, or prayer groups where you can deepen your spiritual life alongside others. These communities offer support and accountability as you grow in your relationship with God.
• Foster close friendships: Invest in friendships that bring joy and mutual growth. Spend time with people who uplift you and share your values.

Meaningful relationships remind us that we are not alone, and they enrich our lives in ways that prepare us for the future.

Seek Holiness Now

Marriage is a beautiful vocation, but it’s not the only path to holiness. You can work toward sainthood right now, in your current state of life. God is calling you to live a life of purpose, peace, and love—right where you are. Focus on deepening your spiritual life, growing in prayer, and aligning your will with God’s.

• Daily prayer and reflection: Set aside time each day to connect with God. Whether it’s through prayer, Scripture reading, or meditation, make space to listen for God’s voice in your life.
• Sacramental life: Regular participation in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Confession, strengthens your relationship with God and prepares you for the challenges and joys of life.
• Serve others with love: Look for ways to love and serve those around you. Every act of service and kindness brings you closer to God’s call to live a life of love and selflessness.

Remember, the ultimate goal is not just to find the right person but to become the person God is calling you to be—a saint.

If you’re feeling discouraged in your search for Mr. or Mrs. Right, remember that this season of singleness is not a waiting room but an opportunity for growth. Focus on becoming the best version of yourself, developing the virtues you seek in a spouse, and pursuing a life filled with purpose, joy, and holiness.

By embracing where you are now, you prepare yourself for the future, whether that includes marriage or another path. Trust in God’s timing, and remember that your life is already meaningful and full of potential right here, right now.