Dating, like most things in life, comes with its fair share of setbacks and roadblocks. Though there are plenty of obstacles that can stand in the way of a happy dating life, some are more persistent than others. Let’s take a look at a few of the factors that have been known to prevent some singles from having any dating life at all.

• All work and no play - One of the biggest challenges facing professional singles today is the tendency to work too hard at the expense of their social lives. Some people spend so much time and energy focusing on their careers that they may partially or sometimes even entirely neglect their social and emotional needs. Of course it is important to earn a living and to pursue professional aspirations but it is possible to do so without having to sacrifice the possibility of having a love life as well. If you are married to your job and hope that dating opportunities or a chance for love might someday fall right into your lap, now might be a good time to consider a new game plan. Evaluate your current situation. If you are spending more hours on the clock than off, that may be a sign that a reorganization of priorities may be in order.
  
  
• Routine - For some, it isn’t work that gets in the way of dating but they themselves. Sometimes when it comes to matters of the heart, we can end up being our own worst enemies. If you have been single for a while, it could be that you have become used to living the single lifestyle and that you have grown to appreciate your independence. In order to enhance your dating life, however, you will need to eventually step out of your comfort zone and gradually allow yourself to open up to a new partner. Keep in mind that it isn’t necessary to sacrifice your independence in order to have a dating life. Believe it or not, it is possible to strike a healthy balance.
  
  
• Fear - Concerns about being emotionally vulnerable are a common problem for singles who do want to establish a dating relationship with someone special but have trouble putting themselves out there. Getting to know somebody new is most definitely a frightening experience but depending on one’s perspective and attitude, it can also be a very exciting and promising experience. In the end, your dating life will only be what you choose to make it. Getting hurt is a difficult but necessary part of the dating process. It is the method by which we come to learn more about ourselves and what we want out of life and out of a partner. If you want to make the most out of your dating experiences, you will need to face those fears and be willing to take some chances once in a while.