Quick Tips on Getting through pre-engagement limbo:

-Don't compare
So your mailbox is filling up with other people's wedding invites. Remember that every relationship moves at its own pace. Even though it's second nature to track everyone else's engagements, try not to compare the pace of your relationship to those of friends and family. The quality of a relationship is not measured by how fast a couple makes it to the altar.

-His buying more time does not necessarily mean rejection
His not popping the question probably has nothing to do with you. He could be dealing with his own fears. Fears that have to do with change and the unknown. (What if we don't get along in five years? What if there's someone else out there more perfect for me?) Dealing with fears can come along with a normal engagement process.

-Let him know that you get it
Tired of his "I don't knows" whenever you ask him about getting engaged? Instead of starting the conversation with "When do you think we'll get engaged?...." Try starting it with something like, "I know that talking about marriage can be a scary conversation to have, but I'd love it if we could set aside some time to talk about how we each see this relationship growing. That way we can make sure we're both on the same page..." This way he'll feel like you get it and that you're on his side.

-Fight Expectation Downers
Thinking that a proposal is right around the corner - perhaps at your next vacation getaway, on your birthday, or maybe across the scoreboard at the next baseball game? Then by the end of the night you're crushed because still no ring? Don't let expectations get ahead of you. You can manage them by reminding yourself to stay present the next time you have a big night planned out on the town. Stay in the here and now.

-Talk - don't nag
Feeling like a proposal is long overdue, and you can't help yourself from dropping hints and bringing up "engagement" several times a day? The repetition will probably only push him away. Instead, schedule a time to sit down with your beau to have a heart to heart about how you each feel about getting engaged. Open communication is key. Afterall, tying the knot is about both of you.

-Giving yourself an ultimatum
Feeling like you've been stuck in limbo for way too long? Thinking about dishing out an ultimatum? How about instead of giving him an ultimatum "you better propose by March 1 or else" you give yourself an ultimatum by setting a timeframe for yourself as to how much longer you're willing to stay in this relationship without the commitment you want. Afraid you're on the path to being stuck in limbo forever - once you call the shots and make a decision for what's good for you - it is then that you'll feel empowered.