Friends, the world is in a perilous state. We're a dating app, so we don't want to get into it, but if you know, you know. And you might think that with everything that's going on, you might want to be coupled up - you know, seeking a friend for the end of the world and all that - but we think that actually, being single is the way to go at this moment in history. Here are 11 reasons why being single is empowering, fulfilling, and even necessary right now.
Being single lets you prioritise your own personal development without the compromises that come with a relationship. You can dedicate more time to hobbies, interests, learning new skills, progressing in your career, succeeding in your education - basically, you have time to invest in yourself.
Without a partner, you have complete control over your own decisions, actions, and daily routines. You're independent and autonomous.
Relationships bring lots of emotional ups and downs, and without that stress, you can focus on your own mental wellbeing and emotional stability. Take out the emotional trash, and leave it.
Being single means you control your finances and you don't have to consider somebody else's spending habits, student loans, budget, etc. You can prioritize your own financial independence and spend or save your money how YOU choose.
Relationships also bring drama and stress - even the healthiest ones. From disagreements to competing priorities, having a significant other means there will inevitably be some challenges. If you're single, you can cultivate peace and calm, navigating your own issues without needing to worry about someone else's stuff.
So many people get into relationships and start neglecting their friends. But when you're single, you have more time to nurture those relationships with people who will be there for you whether you're coupled up or on your own. When you're not pouring all your energy into romance, you can instead invest in those platonic relationships that give you emotional fulfillment.
Being single means you can define your own personal boundaries without worrying about a partner's expectations - and help you develop a greater sense of self-respect and self-care.
Traveling is great when you're on your own - you can go where you want to, see what you want to see, without arguing over restaurants or trying to find activities you both like. It's your budget, your schedule, your preferences, nobody else's.
Singledom gives you the freedom to say yes to new experiences without worrying about anyone else's priorities or input. You can be spontaneous and flexible, and do exciting stuff you enjoy.
You don't owe anybody else justification of your life choices, how you spend your time or money, what you want to do or not do, your political and social views, etc. Your opinion and experiences are the only thing that matters.
While so many people feel pressured by societal norms to be in a relationship, being single lets you take time to figure out what you want in a partner. You can date casually but not commit to anything, explore your sexuality, have solo fun, and get to know yourself. Then someday, if you want to have a partner, you'll be in a better space to be intentional about it - not defaulting to "settling".
So while Singles' Day might feel lonely in a society that often romanticizes coupledom, treat it as a period of growth, freedom, and self-discovery instead. Singlehood isn't a lack of something - it's a chance to embrace empowerment and opportunity, and to pursue a more fulfilling, more authentic life.
Read more
The HUD Love Club
Aftercare: What is it, and why you should start doing it
Do you practice aftercare? Our friends at Girls Get Off explain why you should make it a regular part of your post-intimacy routine.