It’s easy to buy into the popular narrative that true happiness can only be found in a romantic relationship. Society often tells us that being in a partnership is a surefire way to achieve fulfillment, but there’s a growing body of evidence that proves the contrary. Single people around the world are embracing their independence, enjoying their own company, and thriving without the traditional expectation of a partner. The belief that you need someone else to complete you is not only outdated but can also be limiting and even damaging.
But how happy are single people really, and why? Is it possible to find true happiness in a life of singlehood? Spoiler alert: the answer is a resounding yes! Let’s explore seven reasons why single people are thriving, happier, and unapologetically enjoying their lives solo.
1. The Freedom to Make Decisions Without Compromise
In any healthy relationship, compromise is a key ingredient. While a balanced partnership allows for shared decision-making, there’s no denying that being single provides a unique sense of freedom. Single individuals enjoy the autonomy to make decisions entirely on their terms, without the need for negotiation or sacrifice.
Whether it’s making plans, deciding on life-altering changes, or even choosing who to spend time with, single people are in complete control. This level of independence is a massive contributor to their happiness. Here are a few ways they benefit from it:
- Complete Control Over Plans
When in a relationship, even everyday plans usually involve some level of coordination with a partner. Whether it’s deciding where to go on vacation or what to do on a weekend, a relationship often limits spontaneous decisions. Single people, on the other hand, can go wherever they want, whenever they want, with no second thought. - Freedom to Socialize Without Restrictions
While a healthy relationship allows you to hang out with friends, it can come with challenges like jealousy or boundaries that need to be respected. Single people enjoy the luxury of mingling with anyone, at any time, with zero restrictions. - Sole Ownership of Major Life Choices
In a committed relationship, major life decisions—like relocating for a job, making large purchases, or even starting new hobbies—are joint ventures that require thorough discussion. Single people get to make these choices on their own terms, giving them complete ownership of their lives.
2. Ample Time for Restorative Solitude
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for yourself is often easier said than done. This is where single people have a distinct advantage. The concept of “restorative solitude” refers to the rejuvenating effect of spending time alone, engaging in personal hobbies, self-care rituals, or even just relaxing in bed with a favorite series.
For introverts, this alone time is critical to recharging their energy, but even extroverts and ambiverts need time to themselves to reflect, relax, and reset. Single people are better able to prioritize these moments, allowing them to feel more balanced and in tune with themselves.
Here are a few common activities that fall under restorative solitude:
- Meditating in a peaceful environment
- Enjoying a solo meal or movie
- Engaging in personal hobbies like painting or writing
- Indulging in a self-care ritual such as a spa day at home
Research indicates that single individuals have more time for leisure activities, which can significantly reduce stress and create a richer, more fulfilling life. While people in relationships can certainly carve out time for themselves, it often takes a backseat to the partnership.
3. Single People Tend to Exercise More
It may surprise some, but studies suggest that individuals who have never been married exercise more than their married or divorced counterparts. The reasons behind this are varied, but several theories attempt to explain this phenomenon:
- Married people may feel less inclined to maintain their fitness, as they feel secure in their relationship.
- Acts of love, such as cooking and nurturing, may reduce the need for physical activity in married life.
- Married individuals often have children, leading to busier schedules and less energy for working out.
What’s particularly fascinating is that even divorced individuals don’t work out as much as those who have never been married. It’s believed that routines and habits play a major role in this difference. Regardless of the reason, staying physically active is a well-known mood booster and a key contributor to better mental health. The active lifestyle that many single people lead helps keep them not only physically fit but also happier.
4. Choosing to Be Single: A Conscious Decision
There’s a common misconception that people are single because they can’t find a partner. In reality, many single people are happy and fulfilled because they’ve chosen to stay that way. Opting for singlehood is just as valid as choosing to pursue a relationship, and it often comes with more intentionality.
Many singles face societal pressure to couple up, but those who embrace single life often do so because they find joy in their autonomy. They’ve chosen a path that works best for them, and that, in itself, is empowering.
There’s also the issue of “singlism”—the discrimination and stigma single people often face. They may be unfairly labeled as “unlovable” or even “selfish” for prioritizing their independence. However, many singles view their choice as one of strength and autonomy. They understand that happiness comes from within, not from external validation through a relationship.
5. Fulfilling Relationships Beyond Romance
Contrary to the stereotype, being single does not mean being alone. In fact, single people often cultivate more meaningful relationships with their friends, family, and communities. When you’re in a relationship, your partner naturally becomes your primary companion, and social time with others can sometimes take a backseat.
Single people, however, prioritize their relationships with a broader circle of people. Studies have shown that single individuals are more likely to invest time and effort into nurturing connections with:
- Close friends
- Family members
- Colleagues
- Neighbors
By focusing on these relationships, single people often have richer, more varied social lives. This is especially true for those who enjoy casual dating, as their fulfillment comes more from platonic and familial bonds than from romantic entanglements.
6. Improved Work-Life Balance
A healthy work-life balance is critical to overall well-being, and single people often excel in this area. Research suggests that married men tend to work longer hours than their single peers, while married women often earn less than their single counterparts. There are many reasons for this, including the financial responsibilities that come with partnerships, such as children, mortgages, and other shared expenses.
Single individuals, on the other hand, are more likely to have the flexibility to focus on their careers while maintaining a balanced lifestyle. With fewer obligations and more control over their time, they can dedicate energy to both personal and professional growth. This balance often leads to greater job satisfaction and a more fulfilling life.
7. Correlation Does Not Equal Causation
It’s easy to look at happy single people and assume that singlehood is the key to happiness. But the truth is, it’s not that simple. While many single individuals report higher life satisfaction, it’s essential to remember that correlation doesn’t always equal causation.
People who are already content with their lives are less likely to feel the need to be in a relationship for the sake of it. Conversely, those who are unhappy may seek out relationships as a way to fill a void, leading to less fulfilling partnerships. Single people, on the other hand, often use their time alone to focus on self-improvement, personal growth, and achieving their goals.
In short, happiness doesn’t come from being single or being in a relationship. It comes from within. The happiest people are those who have taken the time to understand themselves and build a life they love—whether they’re single or attached.
Embracing singlehood comes with many rewards. It provides freedom, autonomy, and the opportunity for self-discovery. For those who choose this path, it’s not a temporary state to be “fixed” by finding a partner but a lifestyle that can lead to profound happiness and fulfilment.