I’m not suggesting that being in a relationship is something terrible. But rather, it is important to be able to go on with life without feeling like you need to be in a relationship. Taking time to love yourself and developing who you are as an individual is important. So, instead of searching everywhere for that special someone and getting upset over the fact that you are still single; take a second to step back, love the fact that you are single, and spend some time focusing on you.

Here’s a few things to keep in mind while you’re single:

1. You can take time for yourself

You don’t have to worry about your significant other so you can live just for you. This means you can take time to become mentality and physically healthy. Decide what is and isn’t for you and at the same time become aware of your set values and beliefs. It is important to know what you are and what you’re not. You shouldn’t let someone else decide these things for you, therefore, it is crucial to take time to really know and care for yourself (this also applies to you while you’re in a relationship as well).

2. You have more time to spend with family and friends

Friends are important, whether you have many or a few. Your friends are the ones you can act like a total idiot in front of and it’ll probably just make them love you more. Then there is more time for family. Family is forever. Your parents, siblings, cousins, grandparents, etc. have loved you since you were born. They have and will continue to stand by you even when you feel like the whole world is against you. Always make time for your friends and family and never take them for granted.

3. You save money

Being in a relationship can get pretty expensive. Think about all the money you can save while being single. So, during the holiday times your wallet will be thanking you.

4. You only have to think for one

Every time you go to make a decision you don’t have to ask or wonder what your significant other would want or think. You can make your decisions based purely on what you want.

5. You don’t have to worry about being cheated on

6. You can talk to whoever you want

7. You have freedom to do what you want, when you want to

You can dress and do your makeup just for yourself. You also do not have to text or call anyone. You want to have a night out with your girls/guys? Go for it. No one is there to stop you.

8. You learn how to be alone

A relationship is not guaranteed in life. There could come a time down the road where you end up alone. You need to know that you will be okay and are strong enough to go on with life by yourself. It may not always be easy, but then again life was never meant to be easy.

9. You have more time to focus on your passions

10. It is better to be alone than with someone who makes you feel alone

You should enter into a relationship when you are ready to commit yourself to someone else. It isn’t fair to you or your partner if you just date them because you are tired of being alone. Set standards and always make sure you are being true to yourself. We are living in a world where it is so easy to lose yourself. Just know you are worth it and you shouldn’t have to change who you are for someone to love you.

Be patient and never give up hope. Love will find you often times when you least expect it.