I don't think anyone can give you a straight answer to your question. Once upon a time, I too, was very lonely and found it hard to find companionship. I also went thru issues with those who were willing to take a chance with me, never really lasted that long in most cases. Today I find myself in a relationship where duck tape seems to be the choice of patching up all our issues. The truth is that while we are both trying to make it work, I am not too sure it will go as I would like it too. But I, at least, want to be sure about it before making the big decision if it comes to that. After all, there are children involved in the matter as well.

One thing I have learned thru out the years is that while I hated being alone (I could not stand the idea of not having someone to share some of my moments in life with), being alone at times is actually good for the soul. It allows it to settle back down (like sand in calm waters) after a week or more of agitated stress and hard work. I don't have many friends, and while it did seem to make my life a somewhat lonely and boring one, I have enjoyed the fact that I have avoided many issues related to having friends (like those I see my wife go thru with those she calls friends, which to me are more like acquantances) so in the end being a bit lonely has not been all that bad to me.

All I can say is basically the same thing many others have already told you. Patience. Rushing into something just because you don't want to wait any longer can blind you into something you may regret later. Also, being picky is not a bad thing, after all, you are the one who has to be with them, right? But don't be too picky though, you never know if my right (or at least close to being Mr Right) might come by and you miss him because of something you were too picky about (say a tatoo, hair a bit too long or the car he drives, just examples).