Psyche

What research shows are the benefits of being single

By Wieke Veenboer | #!30Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:45:41 +0100+01:004130#30Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:45:41 +0100+01:00-10Europe\/Amsterdam3030Europe\/Amsterdam202330 12am30am-30Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:45:41 +0100+01:0010Europe\/Amsterdam3030Europe\/Amsterdam2023302023Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:45:41 +010045104511amSunday=9#!30Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:45:41 +0100+01:00Europe\/Amsterdam11#11-12-2023#!30Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:45:41 +0100+01:004130#\/30Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:45:41 +0100+01:00-10Europe\/Amsterdam3030Europe\/Amsterdam202330#!30Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:45:41 +0100+01:00Europe\/Amsterdam11#

A day late, but no less sincere: still a Happy Singles Day to all singles. May you remain single for a very long and happy time. Or not, of course, if you are looking for a relationship. But being single for a long and happy time is perfectly fine, even scientists agree on that. They actually researched it: what makes being single attractive and what are its advantages?

To be honest, you can certainly (especially if you are a happy single yourself) fill in the advantages, but I always feel more reassured when actual research has been done. This was conducted in Greece, via Google Forms, in three parts. The results were clear: being single is actually a very happy and stress-free existence.

‘No one determines my actions’ was the main reason why people enjoyed being without a relationship. No one telling you what to do, checking on you, or influencing how you behave, and no one to whom you have to justify your actions. Can confirm, that is delightful.

Another advantage that participants often mentioned was that as a single person, you are not hurt. I agree with that, although the fear of being hurt (I think) is not a good reason to avoid a relationship. But it is true, because not having a broken heart is personally very pleasant for me.

The third advantage I did not really see coming: ‘Having better control over what I eat.’ Huh? Yes, really: participants indicated that when they are in a relationship, they have less control over what and when they eat. It also makes sense, because otherwise you have a partner to consider when it comes to what time dinner is served. Maybe you are a late eater and your partner is an early one. You love meat, your partner is a vegetarian. Those kinds of issues.

Other advantages mentioned: more focus on your own goals and ambitions and the freedom to flirt with whom and whenever you want. Participants also indicated saving money and time by being single.

Even though it’s Sunday, let’s toast to our singles. May we remain this happy for a very long time.

Image: @kimkardashian