7 Unsung Benefits of Staying Single

Single Life. It’s not just for misers and old maids anymore. It’s the 21st century, and it’s time to face facts: The state of marriage, relationships, and life itself is changing. People are staying single longer, and many elect to remain unmarried for their entire adult life. For all you smug married folk out there, don’t knock single life until you’ve tried it. There’s more to it than just dying alone and willing your estate to your three dozen cats. Check out these seven unsung benefits of staying single. It’s not like you’re doing anything tonight.

Your Schedule Is Your Own

When you’re single, you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do (except bathe, you hippies). There’s no one waiting for you at home, and there’s no need for you to schedule around anyone but yourself. Being single is best for the selfish, the busy, and the antisocial. It’s also perfect for those of us that have the travel bug.
Dollar Dollar Bills, Y’all

When you’re single, you only budget for yourself. Your extra income can go to entertainment and charity, not diapers. Your financial decisions are your own and have little bearing on anyone else. Most of the time this equals extra money.
You Break Hearts, Not Homes

When you’re single, you can date as many people as you want, and you can date them all at the same time. You can change your sexual preference. You can stay out until closing time trolling for barflies. And the best part about that? You aren’t hurting anyone. As long as you conduct yourself with kindness and stay casual, you’re not romantically beholden to anyone.
No Accountability Partner

When you’re single, you can celebrate your vices. Smoke like a chimney? Drink like a fish? Dance like no one’s watching? Sorry for partying? You can stay up late, out all night, and you don’t have to worry about tiptoeing to bed. Do what you gotta do — no one’s going to tell you otherwise. Pro Tip: Be safe out there.
Permission: Granted

Sky diving? A last-minute roadtrip? Taking a day off to spend with your best friends? No problem! When you’re single, you and you alone give yourself permission to live the life you want. You don’t have to take anyone else into consideration, and you don’t have to worry about your choices negatively affecting you. The buck stops with you.
Every Day Is Independence Day

The best thing about being single? Every day is Independence Day. It’s a great feeling to be self-reliant, so take a page from Emerson. Celebrate your singlehood and the opportunities it affords you.
You’re Forced To Change

Active single people can avoid ruts. Life can be wrought with tough decisions, and it’s easier to go where the wind takes you when you don’t have anyone else on your sail. You’re completely in charge of your own decisions, and — although you’ll naturally seek outside input — you have no one to answer to but yourself. You’ll be forced to change and grow, and you’ll learn some interesting truths in the process.