Is there such thing as "The One"?

Over the last few weeks, I’ve found myself pondering the idea of “The One.” Does this person actually exist—or is it a concept planted in our minds by romantic comedies and Disney movies? Is it even plausible to believe that out of 3 to 5 billion people in the world, one person is perfectly made for you?

After asking around—friends, coworkers, even people in their early twenties—I’ve come to believe that maybe “The One” isn’t a predestined soulmate but someone who enters your life at the right time, in the right place, and fits who you are in that moment. I’ve always believed that everything happens for a reason, and maybe love is no different.

Maybe this person isn’t perfect. But they’re perfect for you. At least for the version of you that exists when your paths cross.

And let’s be real—after the butterflies fade and reality sets in, that’s when the real relationship begins. Communication becomes the glue. I read recently that if you truly want to build a lasting relationship, you need to be able to talk about anything. I think this is where most relationships break down—people hold back. There’s a fear of exposing a darker part of ourselves or rocking the boat, but those hidden corners turn into walls.

I’ve made a real effort to be open about my feelings, even if it’s uncomfortable. Because let’s face it—your partner is not a mind reader. Especially if that partner is a man. (Ladies, I know it’s hard, but it’s true.) Men are generally straightforward: if they want something, they go for it. If they don’t, they won’t. There’s no secret code. We’re the ones reading between invisible lines.

Actions. Speak. Louder. Than. Words.

So, back to my original question—do I believe in “The One”?
Maybe not in the Hollywood sense. But I do believe in the right person at the right time. There are at least three people I’ve dated who, at different times in my life, I truly believed I could settle down with. But it just didn’t align.

I’m still a hopeless romantic, though. I believe that when the time is right, someone will walk into my life—and the chemistry, timing, and communication will all click into place.

So what I want what I want!

After my last relationship attempt fell apart so spectacularly, it took almost a year to recover. Only in the past six months have I even been able to consider opening my heart to someone new. And while I’m finally ready to be in a relationship, that doesn’t mean I’ll fall for the first guy who makes me laugh.

This isn’t arrogance—it’s self-worth.

I’m an independent, self-sufficient, intelligent woman. Yes, I was raised in a Puerto Rican household where women were often expected to be nurturing and domesticated. But I’m also Americanized enough to know I will not be taken for granted. That dynamic just doesn’t work for me. No offense to women who embrace traditional roles—respectfully, it’s just not my path.

Recently, I spent time with someone I genuinely enjoyed being around. He made me laugh, and the chemistry was there. But his immaturity was impossible to overlook. I won’t go into detail out of fairness to him, but I’ll say this: I’m not your sugar mama, and you don’t get to treat me like a girlfriend while reminding me you “don’t want a relationship.” You can’t have your cake and eat it too.

At this stage in my life, I’m not looking for practice—I’m looking for partnership. I want my next relationship to be better than my last. And yes, I’m picky, because I should be. Every woman deserves someone who values her, respects her, and treats her like the queen she is.

I know what I want—and I’m not ashamed of that.