I write a lot about relationships but thought it was important to shift some attention to those of you who may not be in a relationship and are single. It isn’t an article to ‘single shame’ or tell you why you’re still single because being single is not necessarily a bad place to be. The worse relationship status is when you are in a relationship with someone who isn’t the right fit for you.
It is counterintuitive to the many articles and advice you will read which will highlight why being in a relationship is better. But, I’m of the mindset that being in a relationship is only better for you (note that YES is highlighted and in bold letters and reiterated once again) if you are in the right relationship. But if that is not happening for you right now and knowing that you are not alone; 50% of the population is in the same boat and is single too, let’s talk about the many reasons you should embrace your singleness and wear it as a badge of honor.
1. You get to do exactly what you want to do and how you want to do it.
Yep, when you are single, you have time to do and live your life on your terms. Don’t squander this opportunity. You won’t be single forever.
If you want to travel, find some other singles and do it. If your friends aren’t able to travel with you, go on your own. If this makes you a little nervous, find a group with similar interests. Traveling while single can create some of your best and memorable experiences.
When you are single and traveling, you are more open to meet people, interact with them and people naturally gravitate towards you because they’re digging your groove and fearlessness in seeking out a new adventure. Learning to travel teaches you a lot about you. You learn how to be creative, inventive, comfortable on your own and most importantly gives you an opportunity to get in tune with yourself and your needs.
If you want to start your own business, the perfect time to do it is while you’re single. You are at an advantage because you don’t have the distractions of a relationship, family, kids, etc. These added pressures and responsibilities can make it a bit more challenging to put in the intense focus needed to get your business off the ground. Savor these moments. Because when you are in a relationship, you will have to share these decisions and spread your time amongst you, your SO, and your family.
2. You have an opportunity to learn about someone important, YOU!
Being single allows you time for introspection and self-reflection. Knowing yourself well is important because it makes you wiser about who you are and the value you bring when you do decide to enter into a relationship. Being aware of your interests, likes, and dislikes, and your values keep you out of relationships that don’t align with who you are as a person. It saves you time and the headache of being misaligned with the wrong person.
3. You may have been told that people in a relationship can get more accomplished, but this isn’t always the case.
In fact, studies have shown that people who end up venturing out the most and trying new things are you got it is, surprise, wait for it, SINGLE. I think there is a logical reason behind this rationale.
When you are single, you are forced to make decisions, take risks, and manage things on your own. What this does is reinforce confidence in your decision-making process, increase your tolerance to risk, and leads to you constantly stepping outside of your comfort zone.
4. You are probably more health conscious and can devote time to your health, wellness, and mindfulness.
When you are single, you have more time to focus on your health. Working out is probably more of a priority along with practicing healthy lifestyle habits. And you can more readily make time for meditation and mindfulness.
You probably know too well that when you are in love and a relationship, it’s normal to settle in, slack off a bit on your workouts and engage in a bit more comfort eating with your SO. Take advantage of your single time to optimize your health and mental well-being. There is no downside to taking care of yourself.
Another bonus, more relaxing and deep sleep. Yep! If you are single, you are more than likely getting a full night of rest. It’s great to cuddle with your SO, but when you are single, you have the benefit of having a full bed to yourself. Take advantage of it. It will mean you are more well-rested than most couples. Many couples end up having separate bedrooms in longer-term relationships for a reason. Different sleep habits and sleeping styles can be rough on even the most loving relationship. So, revel in that extra space you have for now, and enjoy those extra Z’s.
5. Flexibility, Flexibility, and more flexibility.
When it’s you, and about you, you can do what you want to do that works for you without seeking permission. This dynamic changes significantly when you are in a relationship or have parenting responsibilities. When you do, you have to approach things very differently. You have to learn how to compromise, think of others first, and these things have to be taken into consideration before you make a move. But, guess what? If you are single, you don’t have to do any of this. You can do whatever makes your heart content. The world is your oyster! Take full advantage. You will not always have this option especially once you are in a relationship. Use your flexibility to do things you want to do, knock things off your bucket list, or whatever makes your heart content. Carpe Diem!
6. Just because – It ok to be single or be whatever the heck you want to be.
Some people are more suited for the single lifestyle because it works for them. They enjoy companionship but may want it in non-traditional ways or limited doses. And that is fine. Who cares what others think? If you are happy in your single-state, enjoy it and ignore the naysayers. You’d be surprised at how others wish they could have perks you are probably taking for granted.
I bet you are already looking at being single in a different way. You should! Being single has its advantages too. Now get out there and enjoy your singleness so that when you are in a relationship, you can look back and know that you took full advantage of your moment to prepare you for what’s to come.