“You know that tingly little feeling that you get when you like someone? That’s common sense leaving your body.”

Everyone gets lonely, we all want that special someone to comfort us when we’re down, we want to fall asleep in their oversized t-shirts and most of all we want someone that we can see a future with. While all of those things are great, it takes time, effort and a whole lot of patience to deal with another person. We can barely handle ourselves trying to juggle six classes, nagging parents and professors who won’t give us a break. Now don’t get me wrong, I am happy for those who have found someone special, but I am convinced that those in a long term relationship are secretly miserable. For those who haven’t found someone, it can be terribly inconvenient; there are many benefits to being single… especially if you’re still getting that degree.

The first benefit to being single is: you can channel all of your energy into school and attain that 4.0 GPA. If you are in college, then I am sure you know how tough it is to land all A’s and it’s even harder when you’re distracted or getting into petty arguments with your significant other. Some people would do anything to get that A (me) and you can accomplish this goal easily when you have time to yourself. Time and sleep are scarce in college and your time and sleep becomes even more limited when you have to stay up and text your boyfriend all day, call your boyfriend multiple times, have weekly arguments or let them know you’re going to get your legs waxed. Boyfriends are nosy and some may even want to know every detail of your day or keep tabs on your every move. WATCH OUT... okay maybe I am exaggerating but the point is, use your time wisely and if you’re one of those, then you will be sure to achieve that 4.0, or close to it if you make wise decisions.

Another benefit to being single is you can be as flirtatious as you would like; you’re free to mingle boys and gals. Let’s be real guys, we all flirt, whether we are aware or oblivious to it; flirting could range from giving someone a light punch, excessive laughing or smiling, twirls of the hair to constant bickering. When you are in a relationship, it is often hard to keep your attention mainly on that one person. Our eyes constantly roam and whether you like it or not. I saw you checking that dude out with the large muscles. The dilemma that we all face when it comes to this is that it’s easy to develop lingering feelings for a “friend” who is the opposite sex or even the same sex; it’s normal I promise, don’t be embarrassed. When this happens it can cause a vast amount of problems and difficulties for both people; even worse if your partner is insecure, get ready for a terrible confrontation. Let’s keep it nice and simple; if you’re the flirty type then singlehood might be for you.

Now, what you’ve all been waiting for … the last and most important benefit to being single; you can work on yourself. It is awfully tempting to get complacent when you have a partner and it’s as if you’re being sucked into this vortex. It is also tempting to lose yourself because you are busy being someone else for your partner. We’ve all been through the honeymoon stage where it’s all roses and butterflies and then realize a relationship is much more complex. Just a quick fun fact for you all, a survey by UK researchers found that 62% of respondents gained 14 pounds or more after beginning a relationship. This weight gain appears to be a direct consequence of typical date-night activities. When asked to choose their primary bonding activity, 30% of respondents chose “watching television” and 20% chose “eating out.” So if you’re looking to gain more and 15 pounds then a relationship is the choice for you. Anyways, we can all use some more time to work on our “crazy” habits, flaws or simply just enjoy being who we are without the validation of a partner.

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The single life is the bomb, right? 4.0 GPA, mingling and head space what more can you want? Enjoy it ladies and gents.