Lifestyle | Personal Growth

What Are the Benefits of Being Single? (26 Perks + Expert Insights)

By Jahrine Okutsu
Updated on

Do you feel pressure to find someone just because you’re single? Well, let’s pause and look at the other side. Being single is not a waiting period—it’s a chance to really get to know yourself, make your own plans, and enjoy life at your own pace.

This article will show you why so many people find being single rewarding. From following your own schedule to enjoying peaceful, solo moments, being single has lots to offer.

Keep reading as we uncover the surprising benefits that could change how you see being single.

You’re the Captain of Your Ship

When you’re single, you really are the captain of your own ship. You get to chart your own course and steer your life exactly where you want it to go. This level of control means you choose how you spend your time, whom you spend it with, and what priorities you set.

It’s about making decisions without needing to compromise or consult—whether it’s as small as what movie to watch or as big as deciding to move to a new city.

Imagine deciding on a whim to take a weekend trip or changing your apartment’s decor without discussing it with someone else. That’s the kind of freedom we’re talking about here.

Embark on a Journey to Discover Who You Truly Are

One of my personal favorite aspects of being single is the incredible journey of self-discovery it sets you on.

This is your chance to explore your interests, passions, and dreams without distractions or influences from a partner. You might find out that you have a knack for painting, a passion for rock climbing, or a love for world cuisines.

Through these activities and experiences, you learn about your strengths, weaknesses, and preferences. You start understanding what truly makes you happy, what doesn’t sit well with you, and I mean, isn’t that crucial for living a fulfilled life?

Build an Unshakeable Sense of Independence

When you’re single, you learn to rely on yourself. You make your own decisions, handle your own finances, and take care of your own well-being. This fosters a sense of independence and self-reliance that is incredibly empowering.

Knowing you can handle things on your own builds confidence and prepares you for all of life’s challenges.

Rediscover Self-Love; It’s a Beautiful Journey

Being single gives you the opportunity to focus on the most important relationship you’ll ever have: the one with yourself. Take this time to appreciate your strengths, accept your flaws, and nurture your well-being.

Treat yourself with kindness and compassion. Discover new hobbies, pamper yourself, or simply spend time doing things you truly enjoy. This is your chance to fall in love with yourself all over again.

Clarify in Your Heart What You Seek in Love

Now, taking time as a single person also means you gain a clearer picture of what you truly desire in a partner. This clarity comes from understanding yourself deeply—your values, desires, and boundaries.

Reflect on past relationships or crushes. Think about what worked and what didn’t. This isn’t about crafting a perfect person in your mind but rather understanding the core attributes that will genuinely resonate with your spirit.

Identifying these can steer you away from repetitive cycles and towards a healthier, happier relationship when you’re ready.

"Ponder what you may want for a relationship in the future. Explore if any of those characteristics are features you long to have within yourself. If this is so, take action. As Gandhi says, “be the change you wish to see in the world."

— Dr. Tricia Wolanin, Psy.D. | Clinical Psychologist | Author | Yoga Instructor

Explore New Connections, No Strings Attached

One of the liberations that come with being single is the opportunity to meet new people without the pressure of pursuing anything serious. These connections could be romantic in nature, or just new friendships, but the beauty is that there’s no rush or pressure to define them.

For instance, joining a dance class or an online webinar can lead to introductions to fascinating individuals who share similar interests or lifestyles.

It’s refreshing to engage with a variety of personalities and see where the wind takes you without feeling tied down. I mean, isn’t life all about those unexpected, unscripted moments that bring us joy and laughter?

Deepen Friendships That Feel Like Family

While romantic relationships come and go, friendships are the bedrock of a happy life. Use your time as a single person to nurture those important bonds. Catch up with old friends, plan fun outings, and be there for each other through thick and thin.

Having strong friendships provides a sense of belonging, support, and shared joy that enriches life in countless ways.

Strengthen Bonds That Fill Your Life with Joy

Being single isn’t about isolating yourself; it’s an opportunity to strengthen the bonds that bring richness and joy to your life.

This could be through reconnecting with old friends, spending more time with family, or even strengthening ties with colleagues and neighbors. Each relationship offers a unique form of joy and learning.

What does this look like? Maybe it’s reviving a hobby with an old friend or starting a weekend tradition with your sibling. Each interaction isn’t just pass time; it’s an active investment in building a network of support and affection, key components of a joyful life.

Make Memorable Moments with Family More Often

Being single can surprisingly bring you closer to your family. Without the commitments of a partnership dictating your schedule, you can make spontaneous plans with family members, attend gatherings, and be present for those significant milestones.

This extra time spent with family can forge even stronger ties and create cherished memories.

Treasure Your Alone Time, It’s Just For You

When you’re single, you have the chance to fully embrace and appreciate solitude. Alone time isn’t something to be feared or avoided. It’s an opportunity to recharge, reflect, and simply enjoy your own company.

Use this time to pursue personal interests, dive into a good book, or simply relax and let your mind wander. This quiet time can be incredibly restorative and helps you reconnect with your inner self.

Your Solitude Becomes Your Celebration

Being single lets you celebrate yourself and your unique journey. You’re free from the pressure to conform to societal expectations about relationships and timelines. Instead, you can create a life that truly reflects your values and aspirations. Embrace the freedom and independence that comes with being single. It’s a time for self-discovery, growth, and personal fulfillment.

Create a Home That’s Truly Your Sanctuary

Your home can be more than just a place to sleep—it can be a true sanctuary, a personal retreat from the hustle and bustle of the world. When you’re single, you get the full say in how your home feels and functions.

Decorate it to reflect your personal style, create spaces that inspire relaxation and creativity, and make it a place where you always feel at peace.

This personalized space becomes a physical and emotional comfort zone, a tangible extension of your persona. Being able to come back to a place that feels entirely your own is both comforting and liberating.

Sleep Soundly in the Quiet of Your Own Space

One of the simple pleasures of being single? Enjoying a peaceful night’s sleep without any distractions. Spread out in your bed, choose your perfect sleeping temperature, and drift off without any snoring or tossing and turning beside you.

A good night’s sleep leaves you feeling refreshed and energized for the day ahead.

Create a Space That Sparks Your Creativity

Imagine having a space that’s not only your home but also your creative haven, where every nook and corner inspires you.

Being single enhances your ability to transform your living area into an environment that fuels your creativity, whether that’s by setting up a studio for painting, a cozy corner for writing, or a kitchen designed for culinary experiments.

This creative autonomy not only makes your home visually appealing but functionally stimulating, fostering a deeper connection to your personal projects and pursuits. It’s a living space that encourages you to express yourself fully and without boundaries.

"You have space to create. When your time and focus is on someone else on top of the daily duties that pull us it leaves little time for creating. When you are alone there is the opportunity to silence the noise so you can tap into spirit and create, leading you in the direction of your destiny."

— Dawn Burnett, CSA | Transformational Divorce Coach | Wellness Strategist | Author, Connect How To Love And Accept Yourself After Divorce

Solve Life’s Puzzles On Your Own

When you’re single, you learn to navigate life’s challenges independently. You become more resourceful and resilient. Need to fix a leaky faucet? Figure out your taxes? Make a tough decision?

You discover that you’re capable of handling these situations on your own, which boosts your confidence and problem-solving abilities.

Grow Stronger With Every Challenge You Face Alone

Facing challenges on your own builds inner strength. You learn to trust your instincts, make decisions with confidence, and bounce back from setbacks. This resilience makes you a stronger person and prepares you for any obstacle that comes your way.

Remember, every challenge you overcome as a single person is a testament to your courage and capabilities.

Chase Your Professional Ambitions Without Distractions

When you’re single, you can pour your energy into your career without the distractions that often come from balancing a relationship. This means staying late at the office to finish a project, traveling for business whenever necessary, or even relocating for a dream job becomes infinitely easier. You have the liberty to focus wholly on your professional ambitions.

This freedom allows you to accelerate your career trajectory and embrace opportunities that might require a level of commitment and mobility that being in a relationship could complicate. It’s a unique window to push your limits and see how far your talents can take you.

Craft a Daily Life That Sings to Your Rhythm

Having the ability to structure your day exactly how you like it is one of the underrated joys of being single. You can wake up early or late, eat whatever and whenever you want, or fill your evenings with hobbies or relaxation—it’s all up to you.

Your daily life becomes a personal symphony that you compose anew each day, based on your mood, needs, and desires.

Imagine this: Your Sunday might start with a peaceful walk at dawn, followed by a leisurely breakfast and a day planned with activities that you love, from reading in the park to experimenting with photography.

This freedom to tailor your daily life isn’t just about comfort; it’s about crafting a lifestyle that nourishes and satisfies you on the deepest levels.

"If they have a career they love, they can spend as many hours they want working. If they are building a business, they can do so without the hassle of having to keep up with someone else and their schedule."

— Anita P. Stoudmire, MA, LPC | Licensed Professional Therapist | Love Mentor | Founder, Better Love Movement

Wave Goodbye to Unnecessary Relationship Stress

Let’s face it: Relationships, while wonderful, can also bring stress. Disagreements, compromises, and communication challenges are all part of the package. Being single gives you a break from that particular type of stress, allowing you to focus on your own happiness and well-being.

Reveal Your Hidden Caps and Abilities

Being single often involves stepping outside of your comfort zone and handling things you might not have done before. This can lead you to discover hidden talents and abilities you didn’t know you had.

Maybe you learn you’re a whiz at home repairs, discover a talent for gardening, or find out you’re a natural at planning events. Being single encourages you to try new things, which can lead to unexpected and rewarding self-discoveries.

Break Free From the Need to Please

We all want to make the people we care about happy, but sometimes, in relationships, we can fall into the trap of trying to please our partners at the expense of our own needs. Being single offers the chance to break free from that pattern.

You get to make choices based on what’s right for you, without the pressure of trying to meet someone else’s expectations. This can be incredibly liberating and empowering.

Keep Your Heart Open on Your Own Terms

Being single means you get to decide when, how, and who you let into your heart. It’s about keeping your romantic options open without the pressure of conforming to societal norms or rushing into relationships.

This freedom allows you to explore romantic possibilities in a way that feels right to you, ensuring that any future relationships are formed because they genuinely enhance your life, not because they are expected.

Imagine feeling that powerful sense of control where you can say ‘yes’ to dates that excite you and ‘no’ to those that don’t align with your path. It’s not about being picky; it’s about being smart with your heart.

Your Wallet, Your Rules

My personal favorite! You are the sole decision-maker when it comes to finances, which means you can budget, save, spend, or invest exactly how you see fit.

This control over your money not only teaches you valuable financial management skills but also grants you the freedom to use your resources in ways that directly benefit and please you.

For instance, if you want to save up for a dream vacation or buy that tech gadget without consulting anyone, you can make that decision purely based on your own financial planning and priorities.

Spend Without Second-Guessing

When you’re single, you can spend your money as you wish, without the need to justify your purchases or financial decisions to a partner. This means fewer conflicts over money and no second-guessing your choices.

From little treats to major investments, your spending is yours to control.

This autonomy not only simplifies decision-making but enhances your satisfaction with your purchases. Imagine shopping without having to consider anyone else’s tastes but your own—it’s liberating and drastically simplifies the process, making every shopping experience more enjoyable.

Say Yes to Last-Minute Road Trips and Late-Night Adventures

When you’re single, you have the freedom to be spontaneous! Feel like taking a last-minute road trip to the beach? Go for it. Get invited to a late-night concert with friends? Why not?

You can embrace these exciting, unplanned moments without having to coordinate schedules or worry about disrupting someone else’s plans. This flexibility allows you to experience life to the fullest and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Make Every Day About What You Want

This is the beauty of being single: you have the power to design a life that truly reflects your priorities and brings you joy. Fill your days with activities you love, surround yourself with people who uplift you, and make choices that honor your values and aspirations.

Embrace this time of self-discovery and growth. It’s an opportunity to craft a life that’s uniquely yours, filled with happiness, purpose, and fulfillment.

More Insights From the Experts

“Being single today is not as “taboo” as it once was. They can move at any time, take a job overseas if they choose to, and date whomever they want for as long as they want. They get to manage their time as they choose. Time freedom is truly the number one reason why people stay single.”

— Anita P. Stoudmire, MA, LPC | Licensed Professional Therapist | Love Mentor | Founder, Better Love Movement

“Many of us are so focused on not being in a relationship that we forget that when we are single we have the benefit of being in a relationship with ourselves. This is the time to make you a priority and to explore who you are at this stage of your life.”

— Dr. Tricia Wolanin, Psy.D. | Clinical Psychologist | Author | Yoga Instructor

“Today, I am a huge advocate of the single life. And perhaps I’ve swung the pendulum a bit far in that direction in the sense that I am not interested in a relationship at all. But for me, this is a time in my life of incredible autonomy and personal freedom that I’ve only just developed in the past five years.”

— Patty Blue Hayes | Author, Wine Sex and Suicide My near Death Divorce | Creator, You Can Heal Your Heartbreak Audio Program

“Self-discovery and self-improvement. Being single allows you to focus on yourself and your needs, desires, and aspirations. You will have time to explore yourself deeply and get to know yourself in a way that you may not always be able to when you’re with another person.”

— Briana MaryAnn Hollis, MSSA, CDCA, LSW | Licensed Social Worker | Life Coach | Founder, Learning To Be Free

“It gives you clarity, in order for you to sort out through all the emotional baggage that may come with you. At the end of the day, the majority of people are looking for a life partner. You have to make sure that the person will compliment you and be compatible.

You have to know what you want and what you are willing to accept prior to getting into a relationship. So, taking time out and being single is not always a bad thing. Discover who you are, so that when you do get in a relationship, you will be bringing the best version of you.”

— Shantay Carter | Founder, Women Of Integrity Inc.

“The gift of being single is to fall in love with yourself again. It’s about learning to love yourself unconditionally, wobbly parts and all. It’s about learning to soothe your fears, have real honest vulnerable conversations with yourself about the life you truly desire to create and then from wholeness, inner safety, and authentic expression, find your ideal partner with whom to co-create a thriving intimate relationship.”

— Allana Pratt | Intimacy Expert

“Society loves to make people think single is the worst thing you can be, but it’s not. Single doesn’t mean alone! Lean into your friendships, explore new people and practice boundary-setting with casual dating apps, or join a local meetup group for an interest or hobby. By boundary-setting I mean casual dating with nothing on the line you feel like you’ll lose.”

— Caitlin Fisher | Author

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common misconceptions about being single?

There are many misconceptions about being single, some of which can be harmful or stigmatizing. 

A common misconception is that being single means, you’re unhappy or lonely. Although some single people may experience these feelings, they aren’t universal. Many singles are happy and fulfilled and enjoy the freedom and independence that comes with being single.

Another misconception is that singles are selfish or incapable of committing to a relationship. This isn’t necessarily true, as commitment and selflessness aren’t unique to couples. Many singles are committed to their jobs, hobbies, or a good cause and are able to form deep and meaningful connections with others.

Finally, there is a misconception that being single is a temporary phase that will inevitably lead to a relationship. While some singles eventually enter into a relationship, others choose to remain single long-term or indefinitely. It’s important to respect and celebrate people’s choices and not assume that everyone wants or needs a partner to be happy.

How do you navigate the dating scene as a single person?

Navigating the dating scene can be challenging, especially if you’re new to being single or haven’t dated in a while. 

The first step is to be clear about what you want from a partner and a relationship. Take time to reflect on your values, interests, and goals, and consider what qualities you seek in a potential partner. This will help you avoid wasting time and energy on relationships that don’t suit you.

Another important aspect of navigating the dating scene is to be open-minded and flexible. Keep an open mind when meeting new people, and don’t be too quick to judge or dismiss someone based on superficial qualities. At the same time, be true to yourself and don’t compromise your values or boundaries to please someone else.

Communication is key in dating, so be clear and honest about your intentions and expectations. If you’re not interested in a relationship, be upfront about it. If you’re interested in a relationship, share your feelings and listen to the other person’s. 

Finally, don’t be afraid to take a break from dating if needed. It’s okay to take time for yourself and focus on other aspects of your life; there’s no rush to find a partner if you’re not ready.

Final Thoughts

We live in a world that often celebrates romantic relationships, but that doesn’t mean being single is any less valuable. In fact, it can be a time of incredible growth, self-discovery, and freedom!

So, enjoy being single! Take advantage of the opportunities it offers. You might be surprised at how much you love this chapter of your life.

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Jahrine Okutsu

Jahrine Okutsu believes that words are powerful tools for connecting people. Driven by this conviction, she earned a degree in Communication and now applies this principle daily in her role as a committed writer and editor.

In her downtime, she finds delight in the simple pleasures of life—watching movies, playing horror games, and sipping on a warm cup of coffee. She sometimes gets lost in daydreams, letting her imagination wander, while at other times, she finds focus and peace through spiritual practices. Her dog, Zoey, brings an extra layer of joy and fulfillment to her life.