Desperate to tie the knot

Q: I’m an attractive 25-year-old girl with a great job, great family and great friends. I’ve had a few short-term relationships and one long-term serious one.

I’m single now, but more than anything, I’m ready for a commitment.

I want to get married and have kids. I feel like I’m on a deadline and panicky that I don’t have a boyfriend. I’m extremely social, but very picky.

I met a guy in the summer whom I really liked, but he’s out west so we’ve just texted, Skyped once, and had one phone call. He said he was going to visit, but hasn’t.

I feel like I’ve missed past opportunities with guys who liked me, but I wasn’t ready. I don’t know where to meet guys; I tried online dating, but it’s not for me.

I want to meet someone great and I’m sick of being single. Time’s passing me by. How can I get a boyfriend ASAP?

— Want a Good Man

A: Who set your panic button on “Deadline?”

It’s some ghostly message from the past, because most modern women of 25 — especially those with great jobs, family and friends — have the confidence to gain more independence and good judgment before pining for marriage.

You sound needy, which is unattractive to guys. Most men in your age range are not panicking or ready for marriage and children.

Turn off the timer and put your enthusiasm into learning more, having adventures, travel, fun and meeting people of both genders. It’ll make you more interesting and ultimately attract men you’ll want for themselves, not just to meet a deadline.