Is Settling for Singlehood the Answer if Love Fails?

Have you ever felt like throwing in the towel on love and settling for singlehood instead? It's understandable. Many of us want that once-in-a-lifetime kind of romance that never quite pans out, and so we're left feeling alone and wondering if being single is the only option we have.

The truth is, every single person will find themselves on their own at some point in their lives. That doesn't mean that there's something wrong with you; it just means that you haven't found that special someone yet. We have to remember that those moments of solitude can be a time for growth and reflection; an opportunity for us to come to terms with our emotions and to learn more about ourselves.

When you're single, you have more control over your life. You don't have to account for anyone else's feelings, or put aside your immediate needs for the sake of another person's happiness. You are free to do whatever you want, whenever you want. This freedom can feel liberating and empowering.

Rather than seeing this period of being single as a kind of punishment, we should look at it as an opportunity to discover ourselves and figure out what we really want in life. This newfound appreciation of your own company might make future relationships better since you won't need anyone else to make you happy—you'll already have the skills necessary to cultivate your own contentment.

That doesn't mean you should get too attached to being single, however. Shutting yourself off from the idea of love will prevent you from taking advantage of any potential relationships in the future. Once you've accepted that it's alright to spend some time on your own, try to stay positive and remain open to the possibilities.

Being single doesn't have to mean being lonely. Surround yourself with supportive friends who can provide emotional guidance. Reconnect with the passions or hobbies that put you in a good headspace and can keep you entertained for hours. Spend some time in nature if you feel overwhelmed—inhaling the tranquil scent of trees can be an excellent way to recenter and ground yourself.

Most importantly, be patient. Settling for singlehood can be a great way to take time for yourself and heal any wounds, but don't let it become an indefinite situation. At the same time, don't force a relationship onto yourself if it doesn't feel right. Eventually, you will find the one that works best for you, and then you can start building something real and genuine. Until then, staying single may just be the best thing for you after all.