Distractions...

To survive in NYC as a single person, you need at least one distraction.

distraction : a guy/girl who is attractive and into you but for some reason (e.g., distance, job, age, education level, or laziness) you aren't sure you are ready for a full-time or even part-time relationship with (usually a heavily texting or social media interaction)

I wholeheartedly believe that distractions keep you from going insane in this city. I believe in having more than one distraction but it can get a bit crazy. Also, distractions help you to not dwell on one particular interest. It helps keep you level-headed and sane because you don't have the time or the energy to text stalk someone because your distraction is texting you. ;0

Although, distractions might have a shorter shelf life than other situations. Some people don't enjoy being strung along indefinitely. (If distance is one of the factors, it might last a little longer).  Since, they have a shorter shelf life, you might need to replace them often.

It also sucks when your distraction gets distracted and can't distract you anymore. You will need to find a new distraction.  It is always possible for a distraction to resurface.

You also might find yourself in the situation where you need a distraction (or two) from your distraction.  Now this is a little iffy because if you find yourself in the situation where you need to distract yourself from your distraction, there might be an argument that your distraction has become less of a distraction and more relevant than one would have originally hoped.  This is where finding new distractions is key.  If you do want to keep this other distraction but you think you need to back off for some reason (e.g., late night/drunken text messages, keeping your dignity), then you should definitely find other distractions that still boost your ego and make you feel attractive and keep your attention otherwise engaged.

This is very strategic but true.

Currently, I am entertaining 4 distractions all at different levels of interest but each capable of serving their limited purpose.

-S
P.S. New York is a very fast-paced city, if you don't stay relevant, you don't exist.