Staying single can be fun
Tuesday 27 February 2007
Are you fed up because everywhere you look you can see loved-up couples and you're all on your own? Wondering if it's possible to be happy without part of a double act?
There are loads of reasons why staying single can be great.
You can do what you want
If you've nobody else to answer to, you can pretty much do what you like. Want to see that movie that everyone else is slating? It's not a problem. Who's going to object?
You can keep your options open
Of course, while you're single, there's every chance that the right person will come along for you. If you're already available, then that's great. If you've rushed into a relationship with someone who's not right, there's a chance that when you do meet the right person, you might have a problem.
Staying single for a while means you've more chance of meeting someone. Relationships can get possessive and potential new friends might stay away of they think you're already attached. "You don't need another person to feel special," says Melissa, 16. "Enjoy the freedom and independence while you can! I'm not bothered about a boyfriend."
It's easier on your bank balance
When you're loved up in a twosome, you might also find yourself spending for two. A date out to the cinema or going for something to eat doesn't come cheaply and if you're subsidising your beloved, your bank balance might be waiting for the day your big romance comes to an end.
Being a singleton that you can spend your cash your way on the things you want. It's like a green light to be totally selfish!
More time for you to do other things
Being part of a couple isn't just a strain on your bank balance; it can take a lot of your time too. Some people on a relationship find that other things suffer from them not being able to spend a lot of time on them.
Sometimes, friendships can fall by the wayside because you're so loved up that you don't have any time.
On being single, 18-year-old Paddy says: "You have more time to hang with your friends and not feel guilty about not spending time with your girlfriend."
Also, your other half might get a bit jealous of you devoting you precious time to your mates unless you strike a balance, which can be hard. That's before you even get started on your homework or job, which can also be a big drain on your time
