The idea of romance and being in a relationship are highlighted in social media so much so that one’s happiness seems to depend on a relationship status (Jalili, 2018). Additionally, the concept does not get easier, especially when one is surrounded by friends who are in a relationship and taking steps towards commitment.
This might make some feel pressured to find the ‘perfect’ one, to be like their friends and to fit in with this culture where everyone needs to have a significant other. Being in a relationship isn’t the only way to find happiness and this blog looks into 7 ways of owning ‘the currently single status’.
1. Own your freedom
Being in a relationship means that you must consider your partner prior to making ‘big’ decisions (Wallen, 2022). Therefore, being single gives one the opportunity to be more spontaneous and freer willed. You can take this time to enjoy your life to the fullest without hesitation of the impact that certain decisions could have on a partner (Jalili, 2018).
2. Figure out who you are
Whether you are recently single or have been for a while, this can be an opportunity to get in touch with yourself (Wallen, 2022). Give yourself the time to understand your likes and dislikes and focus on doing things for yourself rather than for others (Jalili, 2018).
3. Focus on self-care
Although relationships can be desirable, they require a lot of time and energy. Hence, rather than dwelling on whether you will find a partner, use this time to focus on your needs. Take the opportunity to socialise, relax, and focusing on yourself (Jalili, 2018).
4. Take the opportunity to become comfortable with yourself
Being single can be associated with being lonely. However, this does not have to be the case (Wallen, 2022). It is important for one to be comfortable with the idea of being alone. There is a difference between being alone and feeling lonely. This alleviates the pressure of needing to be in others company and can thus lead to a more fulfilled life. Additionally, when you are capable of enjoying your own company, then you will spend more time with those who are significantly important and who make a difference to you (Jalili, 2018).
5. Boost your self-confidence
Partnership can make you rely on your partner. Hence, being single can make one more independent. Therefore, your strengths are highlighted even further which can in turn boost your self-confidence (Jalili, 2018).
6. More time to focus on your career
While single, individuals tend to prioritise their career as one does not have to focus on relationship troubles. Therefore, this can result in better work opportunities, promotions, and higher salaries (Dodgson, 2019).
7. Enjoy a less stressful life
Rather than stressing about being single and finding a partner, take the opportunity to enjoy this time. Own your ‘single status’ by focusing on yourself. Consider the advantages of having time for yourself, not having to think of someone else prior to making decision and having the bed to yourself. Most importantly, enjoy having less stress in your life (Dodgson, 2019).
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Yasmine Bonnici graduated in Nursing and also completed her Masters in Counselling. She has worked with victims of domestic violence, clients dealing with suicidal ideations, bereavement, separation, and anxieties. She is currently working with Willingness Team as a counsellor seeing clients who would like to explore their own identity and deal with any surfacing issues.
Bibliography
Dodgson, L. (2019). 7 science-backed reasons why you’re better off being single. Insider. Retrieved 7 April 2022, from https://www.insider.com/reasons-youre-better-off-being-single-according-to-science-2019-2.
JALILI, C. (2018). 9 Ways Being Single Can Improve Your Life. Time. Retrieved 3 April 2022, from https://time.com/5401028/benefits-being-single-experts/.
Wallen, D. (2022). 9 Surprising Benefits of Being Single That No One Has Told You Before. Lifehack. Retrieved 7 April 2022, from https://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/9-surprising-benefits-being-single.html.