I’ve been single for awhile now. It’s something I don’t really think about too often and it actually doesn’t bother me. While I have a lot of single friends who hate being alone and can’t wait to find someone to call their S.O., I’m the total opposite. It’s not that I don’t want eventually want to be in a long-term relationship, but for now, I think I’m good right where I’m at. Here’s why:
- I like having my freedom. Plenty of my friends in relationships do this thing where they check in with their boyfriends non-stop to let them know where they’re at and what they’re doing at any given time. It’s basically an unnecessary responsibility. Feeling obligated to tell someone where I am and who I’m with isn’t in my plans. I know it’s just basic consideration when you’re dating, but I think I’ll keep my freedom instead.
- I’ve learned to enjoy my alone time. A good book on the beach or a Netflix marathon have become some of my favorite things to do. And the last time I checked, I don’t need a guy in order to delight in those hobbies. I’m even easing myself into having a dinner/movie date with myself. Go me!
- I’m afraid I won’t like myself in a relationship. I don’t want to be a completely different person when I get a boyfriend. It happens — I’ve seen it. I don’t want to be the one that causes my friends to drift away or the reason my family stops calling. They say change is good, but I say not today, Satan.
- I don’t want to date someone on my level. Every day, I’m working on making myself a better person. I’m going to the gym so I can have the body I want. I’m working hard at work so I can be a boss. I’m also saving money so I can travel and buy the things I want and deserve. I wouldn’t want to date someone at the level I’m at now. It’s better we both work on ourselves for now and if it’s meant to be, we’ll come together later.
- I feel like dating is way too exhausting. Having a large french vanilla iced latte is already part of my day. If I add dating into the mix, I’m going to need twice as much caffeine. Trying to impress guys and keep the conversation going seems way too tiring and I don’t want to partake in that. My energy needs to be used for more important things.
- My friends have set really bad examples. Somehow, their relationships never last. They go from the honeymoon phase to “I hate your guts” extremely fast and that freaks me out. I don’t want to waste my time. I know not every relationship turns out like this, but you can only witness so many disasters before you start freaking out.
- I don’t know what I’m looking for. Being single has allowed me to get to know myself, but I haven’t figured out what I really want in a significant other. I guess that’s the point of dating, but I feel like I should at least have a starting point. I don’t have the slightest clue what qualities I’m looking for in my future husband, so I’d rather not bother right now.
- I’m scared my heart will get broken. I don’t think I’m ready to feel that kind of pain. Is it really worth the risk? The best way I know how to avoid it is to stay single. Attempting to date seems like it could lead to unwanted heartache and trouble. I say no thanks. I’ll pass.
- I don’t want to settle for the sake of not being alone. Since I don’t know what I’m looking for in a partner, I’m afraid if I get wrapped up in dating, I’ll eventually take what I can get (which will be less than I deserve) just for the sake of ending the dating insanity. That wouldn’t be good for either of us.
- I hate the idea that you can’t be happy to be single. Why is the assumption that if you’re not already in a relationship, you must be actively looking for one because you surely couldn’t be happy on your own? That’s BS. I’m living proof that rolling solo isn’t a death sentence. It’s just another phase of life, and I’m enjoying it while it lasts.
