Every single person dreads going home and having their family members ask never-ending questions about their relationship status. There's this obsession with people being in a relationship at all times. It almost feels as if we are expected to be glued to a significant other from the day we begin puberty.
I used to feel this pressure; my friends and my roommates who are in relationships made me feel like I needed to find someone and cling on to them just to change my relationship status on Facebook. My dating track record is not very impressive. I've made some crummy decisions and I haven't always had the best judgement of character, which has led to heartbreak and disappointment. However, since giving up on the opposite sex I've found many reasons why being single is not necessarily a bad thing.
1. I don't need permission.
I see so many people in relationships skipping nights out with their friends or even study dates in the library because they are afraid what their boyfriend or girlfriend might think. Coming to college I was so looking forward to gaining some independence and I love that I don't have to worry about anyone's opinion of how I spend my time.
2. My friends come first.
Even back in high school, I really resented the friends who could cancel plans at the drop of a hat if their significant other was free. I can't imagine missing out on any of the memories that I've made with my friends just because of I have a guy who makes me feel obligated to make him my only priority.
3. I don't have to text back.
Honestly, maybe it's only me but I feel like there is a huge expectation that if you're "talking" to someone you have to text all day, everyday. I'm awful at remembering to respond, so I'm grateful that I'm not getting "in trouble" for not responding quickly enough. (I'm not going to lie: I used to be one of those psycho girls who got pissed off if the guy I was texting didn't answer in .3 seconds, so who am I to judge if you still are?)
4. No one is keeping tabs on my texts or likes.
Keeping with the subject of phones and social media, I think every girl has taken the time out of their day, no matter how hectic, to check the online activity of their crush/boyfriend/girlfriend. Being single means I can text whoever I want, whatever I want, and post pictures with all my guy friends without starting World War III.
5. I do things that make me happy — I'm not trying to impress anyone.
It's a common assumption that girls who dress a certain way, or wear makeup or even post selfies do so to get the attention of some guy; but honestly I think that's a load of crap. Everyday I wake up and I either get ready (or don't) based on my mood and what I feel like doing. I spend the time doing my makeup and hair because it makes me feel good about myself, not because I'm trying to impress some loser.
6. I'm the best version of myself.
Like I said before, I have had some toxic relationships and flings, and they aren't easy on one's ability to be optimistic about relationships. Being single has taught me that I am the only person who should affect my happiness. I've learned not to rely on anyone. How are you expected to love someone if you can't love yourself? College is a time of self-discovery. Take advantage of that.
7. I don't "jump into things."
Since I no longer feel the need to place a label on anything, I have learned to take my time and get to know the people I let into my life, which decreases the risk of getting hurt again.
So maybe I didn't get a giant teddy bear for Christmas, or a Pandora ring for Valentine's Day. But being single is definitely not a bad thing.
