The Single Gal Essentials

Submitted by Lisa Steadman on March 30, 2009 - 7:00 am

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Our married-with-children friends have a checklist before they leave their suburban homes: diapers, toys, bottle, baby. When you leave your swanky bachelorette pad, what’s on your checklist? What provisions do you need to successfully and joyfully navigate your single gal life?

After a little research, here are the single gal essentials, as recently reported to me:

1. The 3rd Date Outfit
The first date’s a formality. The second establishes mutual attraction. And Date #3 is all about turning up the heat. So whether it’s those saucy black boots you splurged on at Bloomies, or that curve-hugging skirt, or even that sexy spaghetti strap top that shows just the right amount of cleavage, a single girl’s gotta have something that makes her feel like a million bucks for that rare but fabulous third date.

2. Girlfriends
We make each other laugh and soothe each other’s tears and stick together through even the toughest breakups, makeups, and in-between times.

3. Self-Confidence
Single gals of the world should always follow this simple but effective mantra: Always look like you know what you’re doing and that you’re having fun doing it!

4. A Passport
After a particularly painful breakup, I decided to take my dream Mediterranean vacation. Somewhere between exploring ancient ruins, hiking a 12 mile gorge with a cute air force officer, and sunbathing topless I realized My ex would have hated this trip. Which made me appreciate my experiences all the more. And whenever I look at my passport, I smile at the fond memories of my adventure not to mention my month long Paris honeymoon, and wonder where I’ll travel to next – this time with my fab Hubby.

5. The Perfect Workout
Working out is no longer about logging that hour of cardio on the treadmill. It’s about finding what works best for you. So get out of that gym and have some fun! Whether it’s hiking, biking, Pilates, yoga, or some combination thereof, hop to it!

6. A Financial Planner
Most of our mothers went from their father’s house to the sorority house to their husband’s house. Not today’s single gal. Most of us make enough money to live alone, give to charity, and still go on that amazing weekend getaway with the girls. But after awhile, it’s time to get smart. Start planning for the future. And that’s where a financial advisor comes in.

7. A Sense of Adventure
As we get older and the responsibilities mount, we often find ourselves feeling saddled with commitments like mortgage payments, family obligations, job duties. But a single gal must never lose her sense of adventure. Whether that means jumping out of a plane, buying that fire engine red dress, or flying to Vegas for an impromptu weekend of decadence, go for it!

8. A Hair Stylist
Women put a lot of stock – and product – in our hair. And if we’re not happy, it affects how we present ourselves to the world. So splurge a little and find the perfect stylist to meet your needs. You won’t regret it!

9. The Right Technology
I used to live with a boyfriend who had Surround Sound. When we broke up, I held off on buying a new T.V., speakers, or any other electronic devices for a long time. My logic was: The next boyfriend will have all that. After several short-term relationships involving techno-savvy men and their toys, I eventually invested in my own system. Whether it’s a home theater system, a decent computer, DSL, or just an iPod with your fave tunes, it’s time to take stock of what you’re waiting for a man to provide. And immediately provide it for yourself.

10. Toys
Boyfriends come and go, but our adult toys remain faithful – and fun – companions. (Translation: Invest in your personal satisfaction immediately!)

So there you have it. The top ten essentials for today’s single gal. May you learn it, love it, live by it. (And with that flirty self confidence and perfectly coifed ‘do, may you look good doing it, too!)