The benefits of being single

Those who embrace being single tend to experience more psychological growth and development than married people, University of California psychology professor Bella DePaulo said at the 2016 American Psychological Association’s annual convention.

One of those strengths is that single men and women are often more connected to their parents, siblings, friends, neighbours and co-workers than their married counterparts, DePaulo says citing a 2015 study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships.

The difference was more prominent for the never married than for the previously married, researchers say, suggesting that marriage extends its reach even after it ends.

Being single also allows you to become more focused, especially in your career, says Johnnywriter.

“When you’re single you kind of put all your energy probably into your work, especially if you don’t have kids,” he says. “You’re able to focus clearly and have your own agenda. You decide when to do what.”

This is also a great time to focus on your health, Johnnywriter says, and that focused energy is what will help motivate you.

According to reports , 76 per cent of married men and 63 per cent of married women were physically active for less than the recommended 150 minutes per week.

Independence is another plus of being single along with not having to answer to anybody else. This is the time to take on projects you’ve neglected, travel and try a new hobby.

“There’s no pressure and you’re able to pick up and go,” Johnnywriter says. “You don’t have to worry about a second opinion. This is a time for you to grow into the man or woman you need to be so that when you’re ready for that next relationship, you’re kind of at your best.”