While many people find happiness in relationships, some genuinely thrive in their independence and feel more fulfilled when single.
According to psychologists, such as myself, this contentment often stems from specific personality traits that make solitude a source of joy rather than loneliness.
In this article, we’ll explore eight personality traits commonly found in people who are happier when single and what we can learn from their unique approach to life and relationships.
Gaining insight into these characteristics might help you understand why some people are happiest when they’re going solo:
1) Independence
When it comes to being happily single, one personality trait stands out above the rest: independence.
People who relish their solo status tend to have a strong sense of self-reliance and individuality.
Being independent doesn’t mean you don’t enjoy or value relationships.
Rather, it’s about finding contentment and fulfillment in your own company.
You aren’t reliant on someone else for your happiness or well-being, which can lead to a sense of personal freedom and satisfaction that some find deeply rewarding.
This isn’t to say that independent individuals don’t desire connection or companionship—they do—but they understand that a relationship is an addition to their life, not a requirement for happiness.
Having this mindset allows them to enjoy their single status and gives them the freedom to choose relationships that truly complement their lives, rather than feeling pressured to be in one for its own sake.
Recognizing this trait in yourself or others might help explain why some people are perfectly happy being single—it’s about embracing the independence that comes with being on your own.
2) Embrace of solitude
While it might seem that people who enjoy being alone are antisocial or introverted, that’s not always the case.
Quite the contrary, many people who are happier when single have a healthy social life and enjoy the company of others.
But what sets them apart is their appreciation and embrace of solitude.
They understand that spending time alone doesn’t equate to loneliness.
Instead, they view it as an opportunity for self-reflection, personal growth, and restorative downtime.
These individuals find joy in their own thoughts and interests.
They relish activities like reading a good book, taking a solitary walk in nature, or engaging in a personal hobby.
After this ‘me time’, they often feel recharged and ready to engage with others again.
This distinctive trait allows them to celebrate their single status as an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth rather than seeing it as a lack of companionship.
3) High self-esteem
People who are happier when single often have a high level of self-esteem.
They hold a positive view of themselves and value their worth, independent of being in a relationship.
Self-esteem is more than just feeling good about oneself—it’s a deep-rooted belief in your abilities and worth.
People with high self-esteem know their strengths, acknowledge their weaknesses, and embrace their individuality.
This doesn’t mean they think they’re perfect, but they accept themselves—warts and all—and believe in their capacity to grow and improve.
This powerful sense of self-worth means they don’t need a partner to feel validated or complete.
They feel whole on their own, which contributes to their happiness when single.
It’s a mindset that can be incredibly liberating and fulfilling.
4) Empathy for others
Interestingly, those who are happier when single often possess a high degree of empathy.
They have a unique ability to understand and share the feelings of others.
Empathy isn’t about being in a relationship or being single; it’s about being human, recognising the value in others and ensuring that you do your part to respect and support them.
These individuals have a broad perspective on life and relationships.
They understand the diverse ways people can find happiness and appreciate that everyone has their unique journey.
This understanding can lead to less judgement and more acceptance of different life choices.
Their empathetic nature means they can appreciate the joys and challenges of both single life and relationships without feeling the need to compare or compete.
5) Flexibility
Life is unpredictable—it throws us curveballs when we least expect them.
Those who are happier when single often exhibit a high level of flexibility, allowing them to navigate life’s surprises with ease.
This isn’t just about spontaneous weekend trips or last-minute plan changes, though those can certainly be part of it.
It’s about the ability to adapt to life’s ups and downs without the added consideration of how it might affect a partner.
This adaptability applies to both big life changes and small daily routines.
Maybe it’s the freedom to decide on a whim to try a new hobby, or the flexibility to rearrange their living space without needing to consult anyone else.
In a way, their single status gives them the room to bob and weave with life’s punches, making them more resilient and able to embrace change.
This flexibility can be quite liberating and contributes significantly to their overall happiness.
6) Passion for personal interests
People who are happiest when they’re single often have a strong passion for personal interests and hobbies.
These interests provide them with a sense of purpose and joy that extends beyond the realm of romantic relationships.
I once knew a woman who was a dedicated wildlife photographer: She would spend weeks at a time in remote locations, patiently waiting for that perfect shot.
Her love for her craft was apparent in the stunning images she captured and the stories she told about her adventures.
Her single status allowed her the freedom to pursue her passion fully.
She didn’t have to compromise on her time or negotiate travel plans with a partner.
Her happiness stemmed from the fulfillment she found in her work, proving that being single doesn’t mean being unfulfilled or lacking passion.
7) Resilience
Let’s be honest: Life can be tough sometimes.
It throws challenges at us that we may not feel equipped to handle, but those who are happiest when single have developed a resilience that helps them face these challenges head-on.
Resilience is about having the strength to face them, learn from them, and come out stronger on the other side.
Being single doesn’t shield you from life’s difficulties, but it can give you the space and time to build resilience.
You learn to rely on yourself, make decisions independently, and handle problems on your own.
Each time you do, you become a bit stronger, a bit more resilient—and that’s something to be proud of.
8) Self-love
At the heart of it all, the most significant trait that people who are happier when single usually display is self-love.
This isn’t about being self-absorbed or narcissistic.
Self-love is about understanding your worth, prioritizing your needs, and treating yourself with kindness and respect.
Self-love means you don’t need someone else to validate you or make you feel complete.
You recognize that you are enough just as you are, and that’s an incredibly powerful realization.
When you love yourself, being single isn’t a status to be pitied or rushed through.
It’s an opportunity to focus on your own growth, happiness, and well-being.
If there’s one thing to take away from this article, let it be this: Being happily single starts with loving yourself.
In the end, that’s the most important relationship you’ll ever have.
Final thoughts
Being happily single is about knowing yourself, embracing your individuality, and realizing that fulfillment comes from within.
However, it’s important to remember that this article is not about promoting singlehood over relationships or vice versa.
It’s about understanding that happiness is personal and unique to each of us—it’s not a one-size-fits-all scenario.
Whether you find joy in being single or in a relationship, the most important thing is to be true to yourself and your needs.
The traits we’ve discussed here are not exclusive to single people.
They’re traits that can enrich anyone’s life, regardless of their relationship status.
Here’s to finding happiness, in whatever form it takes for you.
May you always have the freedom and courage to choose the life that brings you the most joy and fulfillment.
After all, that’s the ultimate goal.
Remember, your relationship status doesn’t define your worth or happiness—you do!
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