There is, in fact, an “ocean” of available singles with shiny and alluring characteristics. I will admit that I am not afraid to slip on the water shoes and wade with a tackle box full of bait in hopes to reel me in a catch.

The advantage to being one of the fish is the opportunity to have a new fling every couple weeks and never be bored. It is exciting to know that you have no ties and everyone is an option. There are, unfortunately, those times when the water seems to run dry and you find yourself alone on a Friday night being reminded of just how single you really are. Of course, at this moment of self actualization, there will be this couple – you know them – too cute for words, deep in love, sharing drinks and exchanging kisses on the forehead. You will feel ill.

That may be the hardest part about being a serial dater, or a really popular fish. You are uncertain of what you really want. The variety in dating is exciting, and the chance that “the one” is only a weekend or cocktail away is motivation enough. But that sickeningly sweet, monogamous couple makes you wonder if you are missing out on something bigger than your little black book’s flawless organization. It is plain to see that you are torn between the idea of Quantity versus Quality.

As far as quantity goes, it is perfectly acceptable to date a lot of people as long as you know what you are doing. The purpose of dating should be to find out what qualities you like, which helps develop your “type.” It all has to do with personal taste. But rather than look for what you want in a potential mate, I suggest that you find out exactly what you don’t want. It is easier and gets the job done quickly.

I will put this in proportion. Dating is like a buffet:There is an endless choice of appetizing entrees, and the variety is pleasurable. You have the opportunity to enjoy any of these dishes and find out what you prefer. And with dating, you don’t have to clean your plate, meaning if you don’t like the taste of Mr. Possessive after one bite, then you can put him back or spit him into a napkin if you’d like. Or maybe you really do like Miss Neurotic, but next time you’d prefer a little less crme de la issues.

If you are a little picky and prefer to be on somewhat of a dating diet, there are a small amount of healthy choices on the buffet. You will know quality when you see it. When searching for quality you will have to play a waiting game. Being picky takes patience and knowledge of what you want. Looking for quality can only be valid after you have spent a considerable amount of time being taken and thrown back into the sea of quantity. Otherwise, you may never really know what quality is if you haven’t been crushed by the quantity. Since I am still apart of the quantity, I can only tell you that I heard the rumor that once you find quality, the seawater isn’t as sweet.

Do what you will with my advice, but don’t take it too much to heart. After all, I am the Single Guy.