Single: the state of not being in a committed relationship with another person. Anyone can be single. It's another thing entirely to be comfortable while being single, or being happy while single. So many people nowadays try and find their worth in other people, instead of themselves. I am 19 years old. I've never been in a relationship. I don't think I'm missing out on some huge part of my life--I don't feel incomplete. Sure, do I look at a cute boy sometimes and think, 'Wow dude, hold my hand.' ? Of course. But I'm perfectly okay with going it on my own--and I think more people should be.

Contrary to popular belief, being single is not a bad thing! You shouldn't be afraid to be single. Don't rush into a relationship because you're afraid to be 'alone.' Here are some real benefits of 'the single life.'

1. It's an opportunity to discover who you truly are.

When a person is in a relationship, they will often change some aspects of their behavior to cater to their partner. Not saying this is a bad thing either, every relationship is a compromise, but when you're single, the only person that you are behaving for is yourself. You make your own decisions. You decide where to eat, what to watch, when your bedtime is--and most importantly, whether the toilet seat is left up or down!

2. You can take this time to develop your career.

Without the distraction of a partner, you can take this time to really focus on your studies or your career. (Which a future partner, if you should choose to have one, would probably really appreciate!)

3. Being single teaches independence!

Being single disciplines a person to lean on their own selves instead of turning to another person for confidence or affirmation. I find that being single with a positive attitude can really encourage self love and independence because you're not finding your worth in another person. You recognize that you are a worthy person on your own and don't need reassurance from a partner.

4. The single life means LESS DRAMA

We all know that couple who is on again, off again. They break up every month and are back together within the week. They don't agree with basic life ideologies and they fight constantly. Y'all couples do your thing, I'm going to sit back here with my dog and my Pringles can and chill.

In a nutshell, don't be afraid of being single! It's not a bad thing. This time is to develop yourself for the future. You are a valuable, whole human being on your own. If you find someone that you love and who loves you, that's great. But don't feel like you are less if you don't.