Great article from Psychology Today
7 Signs You Are Single at Heart
Being single at heart is perfectly normal and should be celebrated.
Posted December 20, 2022
Source: Karolina Grabowska / Pexels
Being single at heart means that a person is content with being single and does not feel the need to be in a romantic relationship. Promoted by Bella DePaulo, a Psychology Today fellow, the term means that this person values independence, autonomy, and the freedom that comes with being single.
They may enjoy spending time alone and have a strong sense of self. They may prioritize their own interests and hobbies over those of a potential romantic partner.
There are many different reasons why someone might be single at heart. For example, some people may simply enjoy their own company and value the freedom and flexibility that comes with being single. Others may have a hard time committing to a long-term relationship or may struggle with compromise and sacrifice.
Despite the many benefits of being single, society often places a lot of pressure on individuals to be in a relationship, which can be overwhelming and frustrating for those who are single at heart. It is important to remember that being single at heart is perfectly normal and should be celebrated, just as any other relationship status is. Everyone is different. There is no one "right" way to live one's life.
One of the most important things for singles at heart is to focus on their own personal growth and development. This can involve setting goals and working towards them, engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy and fulfillment, and surrounding oneself with supportive and positive influences. It can also involve learning to be comfortable with being alone and finding ways to enjoy solitude.
For those who are single at heart, it is also important to remember that being in a relationship does not define a person's worth or value. It is okay to be content with being single and to focus on oneself rather than seeking out a romantic partner. In fact, being happy and fulfilled as an individual can often make a person more attractive and desirable to others, as they are able to bring a sense of self-confidence and self-assurance to any relationship.
It is also important for singles at heart to recognize that relationships come in all shapes and sizes, and that there are many different types of relationships that can bring joy and fulfillment. These can include friendships, familial relationships, and professional relationships, among others. Focusing on building and maintaining strong, positive relationships in all areas of life can help to fill any void that might be felt from not being in a romantic relationship.
Here are seven signs you are single at heart:
1. You enjoy spending time alone and do not feel the need to constantly be surrounded by other people.
2. You value independence and autonomy in your personal and professional life.
3. You have a strong sense of self and are comfortable being alone.
4. You prioritize your own interests and hobbies over those of a potential romantic partner.
5. You are content with your current relationship status and do not feel pressure to change it.
6. You have a hard time committing to a long-term relationship or marriage.
7. You prefer to focus on your own personal growth and development rather than on a relationship.
In conclusion, being single at heart is a perfectly normal and valid way to live one's life. It is important for singles at heart to focus on their own and recognize that being in a romantic relationship does not define their worth or value.
References
DePaulo, Bella. 2015. How We Live Now: Redefining Home and Family in the 21st Century. New York: Simon and Schuster.
DePaulo, Bella. 2007. Singled out: How singles are stereotyped, stigmatized, and ignored, and still live happily ever after. New York: Macmillan.
Kislev, Elyakim. 2019. Happy Singlehood: The Rising Acceptance and Celebration of Solo Living. Oakland, California: University of California Press
