Happiness | Relationships

How to Be Happy and Enjoy Being Single (29 Tips + Expert Insights)

By Erika Maniquiz
Updated on

Let’s talk about the most important relationship you’ll ever have—the one with yourself.

Society often tells us we need a partner to be complete, happy, and fulfilled. But here’s what I’ve learned: being single is not something to be ashamed of or afraid of. It’s a chance to truly get to know yourself and pursue your passions without compromise.

So, if you’re tired of feeling like you’re missing out or settling for less than you deserve, it’s time to take a new approach to single life. I’ll share some simple but powerful strategies for staying happy and confident and making the most out of being on your own!

Embrace Self-Love and Acceptance

Being single is a stage to truly get to know yourself without the influence or compromise that can come from being in a relationship. Embracing self-love and acceptance is the foundation of being happy and enjoying your single life.

Think of it this way: If you don’t love and accept yourself, how can you expect others to do the same? It’s time to give yourself a big hug and appreciate all the amazing qualities that make you uniquely you.

Think about how much you’ve already accomplished by yourself. Look at the decisions you made and appreciate where they’ve led you. Embracing self-love means giving yourself the same kindness and patience you’d offer to a close friend.

"How to be single and be happy? Be yourself and engage in the self-care labors and loves that are required to know who you are and how you want to live your life... Live big, embrace your weirdness, and find out who you are!"

— Treena Orchard, Ph.D. | Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor | Founder and Clinical Director, New Heights Counseling and Consulting LLC

Cultivate a Positive Mindset

Your thoughts have a powerful influence on your emotions and experiences. It’s not ignoring challenges or pretending everything is perfect but choosing to shift your perspective and the good in your life. So how do we do this? Surround yourself with positivity.

Another simple way to cultivate a positive mindset is to practice gratitude. Every day, take a few minutes to write down three things you’re thankful for—it could be anything from a cozy bed to a supportive friend to a beautiful sunset.

When things get tough, try to view challenges as opportunities for growth; instead of thinking, “Why is this happening to me?” try reframing it to, “What can I learn from this?” shifting the narrative to empower yourself.

Prioritize Self-Care

Self-care is a non-negotiable necessity, especially when you’re living that awesome single life. Prioritizing self-care means making time for the things that nourish your mind, body, and soul, even when life gets hectic.

So, what does self-care look like? It can be as simple as:

  • Taking a relaxing bubble bath after a long day
  • Going for a walk in nature to clear your head
  • Treating yourself to a massage or a favorite hobby
  • Setting boundaries and saying “no” when you need to

The key is to be intentional about making self-care a priority. Schedule it on your calendar like you would any other important appointment because guess what? You are important!

"Make sure you care for yourself by getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising. You’ll find that when you do this regularly, you won’t have as much energy to worry about those thoughts and situations that make you unhappy."

— Colleen Wenner-Foy​, MA. LCMHC-S, LPC, MCAP​ | Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor | Founder and Clinical Director, New Heights Counseling and Consulting LLC

Develop a Strong Self-Identity

When you’re single, it’s the perfect time to ask yourself, “Who am I, really?” You can confidently and purposefully enjoy singlehood when you know who you are, what you stand for, and what you want out of life.

To build a strong self-identity, start by exploring your values, beliefs, and passions. Ask yourself questions like:

  • What qualities do I admire in myself and others?
  • What causes or issues am I passionate about?
  • What are my non-negotiable boundaries?

As you answer these questions, you’ll begin to create a clear picture of who you are and what makes you unique. Embrace your quirks, celebrate your strengths, and own your story—because there’s only one you in this world, and that’s pretty amazing!

"You can also learn to be more independent. ... But when you’re single, you learn to rely on yourself. This can be a great strength."

— Aditya Kashyap Mishra | Relationship Expert, MoodFresher

Invest in Personal Growth

Think of personal growth as the ultimate investment with the best return. Whether picking up books on topics that intrigue you or attending workshops that challenge your comfort zone, growth is about expanding your personal horizon.

Here are some of the ways you can do that:

  • Attend a workshop or seminar in an area you’re curious about.
  • Set aside time each week to read or listen to a self-improvement podcast.
  • Ask for feedback from friends or mentors and take it as an opportunity to evolve.

When you’re constantly learning and improving, you’ll feel more capable, motivated, and excited about life. Plus, you never know when those new skills or insights might come in handy—maybe they’ll even lead you to your dream job or a fulfilling new hobby!

Pursue Your Passions

When you prioritize the things that light you up and make you feel alive, you’ll be too busy living your best life to worry about your relationship status. Not only does pursuing your passion fill your time with joy, but it also connects you with like-minded people.

Let your passions lead to new adventures. For example, if you love photography, plan weekend trips specifically to capture nature’s beauty or city life. Adventures like these fill your single life with unforgettable stories and experiences that are all your own.

So, what sets your soul on fire? Is it painting, writing, dancing, or volunteering for a cause you believe in? Whatever it is, make time for it regularly—even if it’s just for a few minutes a day.

Set and Achieve Personal Goals

Setting goals is about setting clear targets that motivate you to jump out of bed each morning. As a single person, you can go for your goals without compromise. When setting goals, you can:

  • Break them down into manageable steps.
  • Celebrate the small victories along the way.
  • Adapt and adjust your goals as you grow and learn.

Keep in mind that the goal is to grow at your own pace and according to your own rules. Enjoy the process, and be proud of how far you’ve come. Achieving these goals will fill you with pride and self-fulfillment, giving you more happiness while you enjoy being single.

"When you are single, there aren’t many things to hold you back from achieving your goals. Now may be the time to start thinking about what you want. Identify what you want and where you want to go, and then go after it..."

— Colleen Wenner-Foy​, MA. LCMHC-S, LPC, MCAP​ | Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor | Founder and Clinical Director, New Heights Counseling and Consulting LLC

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

You’ve heard it a zillion times: a healthy body is a must for a healthy mind. I’m not going to preach about green smoothies and hitting the gym unless that’s your jam, of course. What I’m getting at is finding your own groove in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

It could be as simple as swapping out that second cup of coffee for water, going for a walk, or shaking your booty to your favorite tunes. A few well-being habits to keep you in shape:

  • Drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals.
  • Find a physical activity that brings you joy.
  • Prioritize rest and relaxation for better sleep.

As you’re setting personal goals, as we mentioned before, adding a few health-related ones to the list can pay off big time. When you feel great physically, everything else in life just kind of clicks into place—including enjoying the single life.

Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness is about living fully in the present, a skill that enhances life, especially when you’re single. Start by integrating short mindfulness exercises into your day. It could be as simple as savoring your morning coffee—really tasting it, smelling it, feeling the warmth of the cup.

Meditation is another incredible tool. Dedicate a few minutes each day to sit in stillness. You can start with just five minutes of observing your breath or using guided meditations. Regular meditation helps reduce stress, improves concentration, and promotes an overall sense of well-being.

With regular practice, you’ll start to notice a greater sense of calm, clarity, and self-awareness—all essential ingredients for a happy single life.

Embrace Your Freedom

One of the best parts of being single? The freedom of it! You can pursue your passions, travel the world, and make spontaneous decisions without consulting anyone else. You can even watch whatever you want on Netflix without compromise. Horror movie marathon? Romantic comedies? Historical documentaries? The remote control is all yours!

Embracing your freedom means living life on your own terms. It’s the choice to sleep in on Sundays or to get up at dawn to chase the sunrise. It’s about making your own rules.

  • Change up your routine whenever you feel like it.
  • Travel solo to places you’ve always dreamt of.
  • Redecorate your space to reflect your personal style.
"Don’t see being single as a negative thing. Instead, see it as an opportunity to focus on yourself and do what you want without having to consider someone else."

— Dr. Lanae St. John, DHS, CSC, ACS | Board-certified Sexologist | Founder, The MamaSutra | Author, "Read Me: A Parental Primer for 'The Talk'"

Enjoy Your Own Company

One of the biggest fears that many single people face is the idea of being alone. We live in a society that often equates being alone with being lonely, but I’m here to tell you that’s simply not true.

When you’re comfortable being alone, you’re never truly lonely. You can get to know yourself on a deep level and develop a strong sense of self-love and self-acceptance. Plus, when you enjoy your own company, you’re less likely to settle for unfulfilling relationships just to avoid being alone.

So how can you learn to enjoy your own company? Here are a few ideas:

  • Take yourself on solo dates, whether it’s a movie, a museum, or a fancy dinner.
  • Practice mindfulness and spend time simply being present with yourself.
  • Pursue hobbies and interests that bring you joy and fulfillment.
  • Keep a journal and use it to explore your thoughts and feelings.

Remember, enjoying your own company doesn’t mean you have to be alone all the time. It’s about finding a balance between solitude and social connection and learning to appreciate both.

Practice Gratitude Daily

Gratitude is the act of acknowledging and appreciating the good things in your life, no matter how small they may seem. It’s about shifting your focus from what you don’t have to what you do have and being content with it.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Take a few minutes each morning to sit in silence and reflect on the blessings in your life.
  • Share your appreciation with others by telling them how much they mean to you.
  • Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you’re thankful for daily.
  • Practice saying “thank you” to others and yourself more often.
"Be grateful for what you have. ... Be grateful for your friends, your family, your health, your job, and anything else that’s positive in your life. The more you focus on the positive, the happier you’ll be."

— Aditya Kashyap Mishra | Relationship Expert, MoodFresher

Celebrate Your Achievements

When you take the time to recognize and reward yourself for your hard work and successes, no matter how big or small, you’re sending a powerful message to your brain that says, “Hey, I’m pretty awesome, and I deserve to feel good about myself!”

Organize little celebrations for your victories. These don’t need to be grand parties but can be quiet reflections of joy like a long walk in a beautiful park or an evening with your favorite movie and popcorn.

Sometimes, celebrating might feel awkward or unnecessary since you’re on your own, but remember, acknowledging your progress is not about seeking external validation. It’s about appreciating yourself. After all, the most important audience you have is you!

Build a Strong Support System

Being single doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Building a strong support system is important to enjoy and thrive in your single life. This network could include family, friends, colleagues, or even members of clubs or groups you belong to.

These are the people who cheer you on, offer a shoulder to lean on, and celebrate your triumphs with you. Reach out regularly and let them know how much you appreciate their presence in your life.

Sometimes friendships drift apart, and that’s okay. Life can get busy, but the beauty of true friendship is in its resilience. Don’t hesitate to reconnect with old friends. Often, a simple message saying, “Hey, I miss our chats!” can renew old connections.

"One of the great things about being single is that you have more time to spend with the people you love. Make sure to take advantage of this and spend time with family and friends doing things you enjoy."

— Dr. Lanae St. John, DHS, CSC, ACS | Board-certified Sexologist | Founder, The MamaSutra  | Author, "Read Me: A Parental Primer for 'The Talk'"

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

Stepping out of your comfort zone means facing your fears, embracing uncertainty, and being willing to fail or look silly in the process. But here’s the thing: growth and happiness often lie on the other side of discomfort.

So, how can you step out of your comfort zone as a single person? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Take a solo trip to a new city or country.
  • Strike up a conversation with a stranger at a coffee shop or event.
  • Say “yes” to an invitation or opportunity that scares you, like public speaking or skydiving.
  • Sign up for a class or workshop on something you’ve always wanted to try, like improv comedy or pottery.

Stepping out of your comfort zone doesn’t mean doing something extreme or dangerous. What’s important is to push yourself a little bit each day. When you do things that scare you, you learn something about yourself and gain a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Try New Experiences

New experiences when you’re exploring the world on your own are trying out what you think you can do or enjoy. Always fancied painting but never picked up a brush? Now’s the time! Curious about salsa dancing? Sign up for a class!

But it’s not just the big leaps—trying new experiences can be as simple as altering your daily routine. Take a different route to work, try a new cafe, or even rearrange your living room. These small changes can make everyday life feel new and exciting.

Focus on Career Growth

When you’re single, you’ve got an opportunity to focus on your career without many of the distractions that come with relationship commitments. Set some solid career goals. Where do you see yourself in five years? What skills do you need to climb up the ladder?

Once you have a clear vision, start chasing those goals with everything you’ve got. Investing in skill development is a great way to boost your career. This might mean taking professional courses, attending workshops, or simply dedicating time each day to read industry-specific materials.

Remember, career growth also involves networking. Reach out to mentors, attend industry meetups, and connect with peers on professional social media platforms. These connections can be valuable in providing advice and even opening opportunities.

Get Out and Do Things

It’s easy to fall into the trap of home comfort, especially after a long week. But remember, there’s a whole world out there! Plan weekend outings, whether it’s visiting a museum, hiking a nearby trail, or checking out a new band.

What are you going to do with a whole day of free time? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Take a day trip to a nearby town or attraction you’ve always wanted to visit.
  • Join a sports league or fitness class and meet new people while getting in shape.
  • Attend a concert, festival, or cultural event that interests you.
  • Volunteer for a local charity or community organization and make a difference in your area.

Remember what we talked about embracing freedom and enjoying your own company? Getting out is how you can make the most of both.

"When you’re single, it’s an excellent opportunity to try new things and explore new hobbies or interests. Get out there and go to a lecture, a museum, a play, a concert, etc. Google search to see what’s available in your area. You might be surprised at what you enjoy."

— Dr. Lanae St. John, DHS, CSC, ACS | Board-certified Sexologist | Founder, The MamaSutra  | Author, "Read Me: A Parental Primer for 'The Talk'"

Fill Downtime to Avoid Loneliness

If you’re not careful, downtime can suck you into loneliness. But downtime doesn’t have to be downer time. Filling it creatively can transform it into something to look forward to.

Here are a few strategies to fill downtime:

  • Pick up a hobby that can be done in short bursts, like sketching or knitting.
  • Reach out and connect with someone, even if it’s just a quick message.
  • Use apps to learn something new in just a few minutes each day.

While planning is great, having some unplanned time is also alright. During these unplanned moments, you might find a new passion or simply have the chance to recharge.

Become Comfortable with Taking Time on Your Own

When you are comfortable with your own company, you develop a deep sense of self-awareness and self-reliance, teaching you to trust your instincts, make decisions based on your needs and desires, and find joy and fulfillment in life’s simple pleasures.

Embrace activities that enhance your sense of self and well-being when alone. This might mean practicing yoga, writing in a journal, or simply sipping coffee while watching the sunrise. Over time, you’ll find that these moments alone are really enjoyable.

Lastly, learn to appreciate the quiet. Silence doesn’t have to be synonymous with loneliness. Use this time to reflect on your achievements, set future goals, or simply to unwind and recharge.

Take Yourself on a Date

Why wait for someone else to treat you when you can take yourself out on a date? 

Choose your favorite restaurant with a drool-worthy dish you can never pronounce correctly, or visit that art exhibit you’ve been curious about. Dress up for the occasion or wear your comfy jeans—today, you’re dating yourself, which means your comfort is the priority.

During your solo date, truly enjoy the experience. Focus on how each moment feels, the tastes, sounds, and sights around you. This practice of mindfulness will make the day more memorable.

Taking yourself on dates is a great way to practice self-care, build confidence, and celebrate your independence.

Practice Self-Reflection

Self-reflection is turning your attention inward and examining your own thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences. It’s about asking yourself the tough questions, like:

  • What are my values and priorities?
  • What are my strengths and weaknesses?
  • What patterns or habits are holding me back?
  • What kind of life do I want to create for myself?

How can you start incorporating self-reflection into your daily routine? Set aside some quiet time each day to journal, meditate, or simply sit with your thoughts. Ask yourself probing questions and be honest in your answers.

Self-reflection is not about beating yourself up or dwelling on your flaws—it’s about gaining insight, clarity, and direction for what’s ahead.

Recognize Your Worth

Recognizing your worth is about understanding that you are valuable, just as you are. It’s realizing that your single status doesn’t diminish your importance. You set standards for how you should be treated by yourself and others and stick to them.

Here’s how you can practice recognizing your worth:

  • Reflect on your achievements and the value you bring to the table.
  • Affirm your positive attributes daily—self-affirmations can be powerful.
  • Don’t settle for less than you deserve in any aspect of your life.
  • Practice self-compassion. Be kind to yourself, especially during tough times. 

Recognizing your worth is not always easy, but you can start by treating yourself with kindness and compassion. Celebrate your accomplishments, big and small. And most importantly, remember that your worth cannot be earned or lost—it’s a part of who you are.

"... when you recognize that you are a whole person whose self-esteem is derived from the things you do in life and how you help to make a difference for the greater good, not from any specific relationship in your life."

— Sameera Sullivan | Relationship Expert, Sameera Sullivan Matchmakers

Commit to Yourself

Committing to yourself means prioritizing your needs, desires, and well-being. It also means setting boundaries that protect your time, energy, and emotions.

This might mean declining invitations when you need time alone or pursuing interests that others might not understand but which bring you joy and fulfillment. Every choice that fulfills your needs shows your commitment to yourself.

Committing to yourself is connected to recognizing your worth. When you’re single, this commitment helps you build a life that’s not waiting for someone else to complete you but rather about completing yourself.

Be Willing to Take Risks

I’m all for careful planning, but sometimes, you’ve got to listen to that little voice saying, “What if?” Being willing to take risks means you understand that every leap may not land you where you expected, but there’s always something to gain—experience, knowledge, or insight.

Risks worth considering:

  • Pursue that idea that’s been sitting in your mind, even if it seems scary.
  • Open yourself up to new relationships and connections, even if the past has been bumpy.
  • Seek opportunities that challenge your comfort zone and incite growth.

Like I mentioned when talking about stepping out of your comfort zone, taking risks is a necessary step on that path. When you’re single, these gambles can be especially empowering, strengthening your self-confidence and expanding your worldview.

Focus on Your Future

While enjoying the present is important, having a vision for your future can provide direction and motivation. Identify what you want your life to look like in the next five to ten years. This vision could include career achievements, personal development goals, or even travel plans.

Setting a long-term vision helps you make decisions in the present that align with your desired future. It’s about setting goals, yes, but also about maintaining a vision that excites and motivates you to keep moving forward.

Stay flexible in your plans. Life can be unpredictable, and adaptability allows you to adjust to changes without losing sight of your goals. Regularly adjusting it based on your current circumstances keeps your vision relevant to who you are becoming.

Spend Time in Nature

Escaping into nature is a great way to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Observing the rhythm of nature can help put personal struggles into perspective, reminding you of life’s larger cycles and natural balance.

Here’s what you can do: A gentle stroll in your local park, a hike in the mountains, or simply tending to a garden at home—each of these activities offers a chance to step away from the daily grind and gives you space to breathe.

Remember how we talked about practicing mindfulness and meditation earlier? Spending time with nature helps you to do just that, It’s a time when you can clear your mind, quiet your thoughts, and just be present in the moment, fully absorbing the beauty around you.

Prioritize Mental Well-Being

Mental well-being is as important as physical health. Prioritizing mental health means recognizing when you need a break, speak to someone, or when you need self-care. It’s about caring for your inner self in the same way you’d care for a visible wound.

What does prioritizing mental well-being look like? It can be different for everyone, but here are a few key things to keep in mind:

  • Ensure regular check-ins with yourself to gauge how you’re feeling.
  • Develop coping strategies for stress, such as talking to friends or journaling.
  • Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if things feel overwhelming.

We’ve earlier discussed embracing your unique qualities, and part of that is acknowledging and caring for your mental health. Recognizing its importance shows a deep level of self-love and commitment to your overall happiness.

Consider What Makes You Happy

This might seem like a no-brainer, but considering what makes you truly happy can be tricky. It’s not about the fleeting moments but about pointing out what brings lasting satisfaction and joy into your life.

Take time to:

  • Contemplate which goals align with your sense of joy and purpose.
  • Think about past experiences that left you feeling fulfilled and joyful.
  • Identify activities or people that consistently improve your mood and outlook.

As I’ve mentioned about practicing gratitude and cultivating a positive mindset, considering what makes you happy celebrates what being single and satisfied really looks like.

More Insights from the Experts

“When you’re single, you have no one to answer to but yourself. This means you can live your life however you choose, even if it isn’t always the most conventional path. Don’t let fear stop you. Being unconventional is often what makes us happiest.”

— Colleen Wenner-Foy​, MA. LCMHC-S, LPC, MCAP​ | Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor | Founder and Clinical Director, New Heights Counseling and Consulting LLC

“Being single gives you the opportunity to meet new people and expand your social circle. … But when you’re single, you can meet new people and make new friends.”

— Aditya Kashyap Mishra | Relationship Expert, MoodFresher

“Your happiness shouldn’t be dependent on anyone else but you, you should learn to enjoy your own company and the best time to do that is when you are single. This will keep you happy during the singlehood phase and help you grow as a person..”

— Daniel Conn | Founder, Relationship Advisers

“True love begins within you. … This meant taking the time to get to know myself and create my own identity. … I took the time I needed to heal my relationship with me. … I’m a whole person now because of it.”

— Romita Bulchandani | Spiritual Life Coach | Founder, Glitter For The Soul

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to be truly happy while being single?

Absolutely! Being single provides a unique opportunity to focus on personal growth, pursue passions, and establish independence. Just like in any other phase of life, happiness comes from within.

Can being single have an impact on my self-esteem?

Being single can actually boost self-esteem when you take the time to recognize your worth and focus on self-improvement. Remember, your value does not decrease because you’re not in a relationship.

What should I do if I start feeling pressure to enter a relationship?

Remind yourself that being single is a valid and worthwhile choice. Evaluate your feelings about entering a relationship—are you considering it because you truly feel ready or because of external pressures?

Is it okay to want a relationship while enjoying being single?

Of course! It’s natural to desire companionship. Enjoying a single life doesn’t mean you close off the possibility of a relationship; it means you’re secure enough within yourself that you don’t need a partner to be happy.

How do I handle questions from friends and family about my single status?

Be honest and confident in your responses. Let them know that you’re happy and focused on your personal growth at the moment. It’s also okay to set boundaries if the questioning makes you uncomfortable.

Final Thoughts

Being single is not a status to be ashamed of or a problem to be fixed—It’s all about you and what you make of your time. So don’t wait for someone else to come along and make you happy. Start creating your own happiness right here and now. 

Remember, happiness comes from within—not from your relationship status. Embrace your single journey as a chance to fall in love with yourself and strive to become the best version of yourself.

Trust the process, stay open to possibilities, and know that you are worthy of love and happiness, just as you are.

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Erika Maniquiz

Erika Maniquiz is a certified teacher and librarian with a Library and Information Science degree. She cherishes the calm moments reading books as much as the dynamic discussions she has in her classroom. Beyond her career, she is a fan of Kdrama and loves Kpop's lively beats.