Dear Meredith,

I recently lost my job unexpectedly, and due to financial hardship have moved back in with my parents while I look for a new job. In the meantime, my dad is pressuring me to find a boyfriend. I am 30 years old and my dad believes I am running out of time to find someone. It is not just to get me out of the house, it is because he believes that everyone needs to be in a relationship. I hate this belief, find it pathetic, and have argued with him about this.

While I enjoy being single and am currently focused on my career, I do think it would also be nice to meet someone. I’m not looking for a future guaranteed relationship, just something to enjoy day by day. However, I am apprehensive about dating. I believe I am still single now because I have generally selected men who were a bit wishy-washy and I have been too insecure and clingy. At this age, I recognize all the mistakes I’ve made in the past and would like to turn over a new leaf. I intend to be more forward about what I want in future relationships and not to settle for what’s immediately available.

I’m thinking maybe I should try some dating websites. That might stop my dad’s nagging and perhaps I’d also make some new friends. However, I’ve tried them in the past and have found them to be … depressing. I was wondering if you had any advice on how to meet people/date given my current circumstances. I would like to take it slow and make friends as opposed to seeking out a serious relationship. How can I approach meeting people without being too presumptuous or “friendzoning”?

– Unemployed