Let’s get real: if you’ve ever found yourself texting “wyd?” to a man who doesn’t even know your coffee order… girl, this one’s for you.
Between conference calls, climbing the corporate ladder, and trying to remember if you actually did meal prep or just imagined it while scrolling Pinterest, dating can feel like another full-time job. And honestly? You’re too smart, too beautiful, and way too busy to waste your energy on anyone who doesn’t bring peace, not problems.
So before you dive into your next romantic rollercoaster, here are 7 things every working woman should do first, no exceptions.
1. Unpack the Baggage, Sis, Not Just Repack It in a New Carry-On
The problem: You keep attracting the same type of emotionally unavailable man in a slightly different outfit. Why? Because you haven’t hit “unfollow” on your old emotional patterns.
The fix: Therapy. Journaling. A brutally honest wine night with your ride-or-die bestie. Whatever it takes to process the past and stop romanticizing your ex just because he knew your dog’s name. Healing isn’t cute, but it’s powerful.
2. Redefine “The List” (Yes, That One)
The problem: Your current list of “must-haves” in a partner reads like it was drafted during a rom-com binge in 2013.
The fix: Rework that list. Keep the essentials (mutual respect, emotional availability, owns sheets with a thread count above 200), but scrap the surface-level stuff. Ask: “Does he add peace or pressure?” That’s the new standard.
3. Fall in Love with Your Own Life First
The problem: You’re so focused on finding “the one” that you forget, you already are the one.
The fix: Take yourself on a solo dinner date. Book that trip. Buy the damn fancy candle. Romance your own life so that love becomes a bonus, not a necessity. When you stop chasing, the right energy starts attracting.
4. Audit Your Time Like a CEO
The problem: Your calendar is booked solid with Zoom calls and deadlines, but somehow there’s still room for emotionally draining men who “aren’t ready for anything serious.”
The fix: Schedule your personal life like your boss lady self schedules meetings. Make room for joy, not just jobs. And set hard boundaries, because your time is your most valuable asset.
5. Upgrade Your Inner Circle
The problem: You’re still asking relationship advice from that one friend who’s never been in a healthy one.
The fix: Surround yourself with women who inspire you, support you, and remind you of your worth when you forget. Big energy only. You can’t build a queen’s mindset with court jester counsel.
6. Know What You Bring to the Table, and Don’t Be Afraid to Eat Alone
The problem: You’re worried you might be “too much.” So you shrink. You settle. You accept crumbs.
The fix: Remind yourself daily: You’re the prize. You bring ambition, loyalty, humor, and a killer Spotify playlist to the table. If someone can’t handle that, they’re not hungry enough.
7. Write Your Relationship Resume
The problem: You’re clear on your work goals, but your love life is operating on vibes and vibes alone.
The fix: Get intentional. Write down what kind of relationship you actually want, and what kind of partner you want to be. Think of it like your dating mission statement. No more winging it. This time, love is on purpose.
One Last Thing:
Before you hand your heart over again, make sure it’s in your hands first. Because the right relationship won’t cost you your peace, your power, or your priorities.
So tell me, what’s one thing you refuse to compromise on in your next relationship? Drop it in the comments and let’s keep it real.