Romantic relationships are often seen as being central to a happy and fulfilling life, but that doesn’t have to be the case for everyone.
If you’re sick of scrolling through social media or walking down the street and being bombarded by happy couples — and being made to feel like you’re missing out — you might need to flip your perspective a bit. Here are some signs you’re actually meant to fly solo, at least for now, and why that’s no big deal.
1. You genuinely enjoy your own company.
When Friday night rolls around, you’re not frantically texting mates to make plans. Instead, you’re looking forward to a quiet evening in with a good book or your favourite show. The prospect of spending time alone doesn’t fill you with dread — it’s actually something you look forward to.
2. You find small talk exhausting.
Chatting about the weather or what you did at the weekend feels like a chore. You’d rather have deep, meaningful conversations or none at all. When you’re forced into social situations with lots of small talk, you find yourself feeling drained and eager to get back to your own space.
3. Your idea of a perfect holiday is a solo adventure.
While your friends are planning group trips or romantic getaways, you’re dreaming of exploring a new city on your own. The thought of navigating unfamiliar streets, trying local cuisine, and setting your own schedule without having to compromise sounds like bliss to you.
4. You’ve got a list of dealbreakers longer than your arm.
When it comes to potential partners, you’re incredibly picky. You’ve got a mental checklist of must-haves and deal-breakers that’s so specific, it’s practically impossible for anyone to measure up. Deep down, you wonder if you’re setting these impossible standards on purpose.
5. You value your independence above all else.
The thought of having to consult someone else before making decisions or compromising on your lifestyle choices makes you feel uneasy. You like being able to do what you want, when you want, without having to consider another person’s feelings or preferences.
6. You’re not bothered by societal pressure to couple up.
While your family might nag you about settling down, and your coupled-up friends try to set you up, you’re not fazed. You don’t feel the need to conform to societal expectations of finding ‘the one’ and starting a family. You’re comfortable walking your own path.
7. You’ve got a solid support network that doesn’t revolve around a partner.
Source: Unsplash+ You’ve cultivated deep friendships and family relationships that fulfil your need for connection. You don’t feel like there’s a gap in your life that only a romantic partner could fill. Your emotional needs are met through various relationships, not just a single one.
8. You’re content with your own sexual needs.
Physical intimacy isn’t a driving force in your desire for a relationship. You’re comfortable with self-pleasure or going without. The idea of navigating someone else’s sexual desires and compromising on your own doesn’t appeal to you.
9. You find yourself feeling relieved when dates fall through.
Source: Unsplash When a potential date cancels or reschedules, your first reaction is relief rather than disappointment. You realise you were dreading the date more than looking forward to it, and now you can spend that time doing something you actually enjoy.
10. You’re perfectly happy being the third wheel.
Source: Pexels While some people feel awkward hanging out with couples, you’re totally fine with it. You don’t feel jealous or left out when you’re around your paired-up friends. If anything, it reinforces your contentment with your single status.
11. You’ve got long-term plans that don’t include a partner.
Source: Unsplash When you think about your future, you envision yourself living alone, travelling solo, or focusing on your career. The idea of factoring in a partner’s goals and dreams doesn’t even cross your mind when you’re making plans for your life.
12. You find the idea of sharing your living space unappealing.
Source: Unsplash The thought of someone else’s stuff cluttering up your carefully curated space makes you cringe. You like your home just the way it is, and the idea of compromising on decor choices or dealing with someone else’s mess doesn’t sit well with you.
13. You’re not interested in other people’s relationship drama.
Source: Unsplash When your friends start venting about their relationship problems, you find it hard to empathise or offer advice. You struggle to understand why they put up with certain behaviours or situations, and you’re glad you don’t have to deal with those issues yourself.
14. You’ve got a full and satisfying life without a partner.
Your days are filled with work, hobbies, friends, and personal projects. You don’t feel like there’s anything missing from your life, and you struggle to see where a romantic partner would fit into your already packed schedule.
15. You find romantic gestures cheesy rather than heart-warming.
While your mates swoon over grand romantic gestures in films or real life, you find them eye-roll inducing. The idea of someone professing their undying love or making big public displays of affection makes you feel uncomfortable rather than touched.
16. You’re more excited about personal achievements than relationship milestones.
While your friends are celebrating engagements, weddings, and babies, you’re more thrilled about career advancements, personal goals, or solo travel experiences. These individual accomplishments bring you far more joy and satisfaction than any relationship milestone ever could.
17. You’re at peace with the idea of growing old alone.
When you picture your future, being alone doesn’t scare you. You can see yourself happily retired, pursuing your interests, and surrounded by friends rather than a partner and kids. The idea of growing old solo feels natural and right to you, not lonely or sad.
