Often "experts" are biggest idiots of all, but one area where they seem to be getting things right is discussion of the need to avoid debt. I didn't want to lead things in that direction too quickly or in a contrived way, but I am glad to see that comment in the early responses. Learning that one must produce more than he/she consumes is one of those basic facts of life that everyone is learning too late these days. Younger people, both adults and minors, today are more technologically advanced than at any time in history, but we seem to have lost this basic wisdom.
For me, fitness has been a problem. When I believed that I would someday find someone, taking good care of myself was pretty easy. As I look at a life alone, I'm less inclined to turn down that unhealthy snack that will make me feel good. I agree that fitness is a good step in preparation either for being single or finding the right partner. If we're making lists, exercise and a reasonable diet should be on both lists.
The family relationships issue is interesting as well. My family has pretty much been down to two generations for several years. Only one great-aunt of my grandparents' generation is still alive, and she's always been too far away to remain in contact. My folks are still alive, but no one of my generation has had any kids yet. (That may change soon, but for now, let's assume that there won't be any little ones.) As I've realized that I'm not likely to be a father, I've thought a bit about trying to build relationships with more distant cousins who might have kids. In part, there are a few family pieces that I wouldn't mind passing down someday to a family member. I'm not good at that kind of relationship-building, but I think it could be a worthwhile part of finding a path forward for people who aren't likely to find a partner.
Bill
You're welcome, Bill. Finances are a big issue in a lot of relationships; I know my own debt was very oppressive and I realized it not only damaged me (my credit report was fugly) but would effect my relationships down the road. I had a lot of shame about it personally and also knew that it would be a turn-off if the tables were turned and I met some cool dude but then found out he was loaded down with debt...
For me, fitness is primarily about my own mental health, secondary for physical health. When I exercise regularly, I feel better not only physically, but mentally and emotionally. It really helps having a young herding dog that MUST be exercised daily (if I want my shoes and throw-pillows to survive!) but it also helps knowing that I have a better mental/emotional perspective when my physical self is in shape. That spirals upward into continued good choices, because I stay aware that the snacks are not my friend (and will not provide the type of comfort I crave). I am grateful to say that I'm waaaaay healthier at 34 than I was at 24, and I hope to be able to say the same at 44, maybe even 54 and 64...
I think it would be good to build relationships w/your distant cousins, nieces and nephews. Not just because you don't have your own kids (yet), but so you don't deprive them of their awesome cousin (= you!), uncle (again, you!) *and* potential date for their hottie single friends that would never get to meet you otherwise. Forgive me if that's obnoxiously optomistic...