If you want to be happy single, say goodbye to these 7 behaviors

Being single can be a wonderful, liberating experience. But it can also be tough if you’re stuck in certain self-defeating behaviors.

The key to being happily single isn’t finding the perfect solo hobby, or even loving your own company… it’s about saying goodbye to the habits that hold you back.

The behaviors that trip us up aren’t always obvious, and smart singles know that there are specific ones to avoid.

If you want to be content in your solo life, ditch these seven behaviors. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

1) Comparing yourself to others

Being single can feel like being in a constant state of comparison. But this is a one-way ticket to unhappiness.

Comparing your single life to others’ relationships or even to other singles is a trap. It’s easy to fall into the mindset of feeling ‘less than’ or ‘behind’.

But smart singles know that every person’s journey is unique.

Your path isn’t about anyone else’s milestones or relationship statuses. It’s about creating a life that makes you happy, on your own terms.

So, the first step to being happy single? Stop comparing. You are not in a race with anyone else but yourself.

Remember this, and you’re on your way to a happier solo life. Don’t let comparison rob you of your joy.

2) Seeking validation from others

Here’s a hard truth I had to learn: No one else can make you feel valued if you don’t value yourself.

When I was single, I used to seek validation from others, especially from potential partners. Every compliment, every positive comment felt like a temporary fix. But when the compliments faded, so did my self-worth.

Smart singles know this is not the path to happiness.

You need to find validation within yourself. Your worth is not defined by anyone else’s opinion or approval. It’s defined by your own self-belief and self-love.

Kick the habit of seeking validation from others and start validating yourself. It’s a game-changer, believe me.

3) Holding onto past relationships

It’s natural to reflect on past relationships, but dwelling on them can hold you back from embracing your single life.

Did you know that a study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that people who frequently think about their ex-partner have a harder time moving on?

That’s right. Constantly revisiting past relationships can keep you stuck in a loop of ‘what-ifs’ and ‘if-onlys’.

Letting go of past relationships is crucial to being happy single. It allows you to focus on the present and the potential happiness that awaits you.

4) Fear of being alone

The fear of being alone can be a significant obstacle to embracing your single life. It can lead to settling for less-than-ideal relationships just for the sake of companionship.

But here’s the thing, being alone and being lonely are not the same.

Being alone means spending time with yourself, getting to know who you truly are, and enjoying your own company. It can lead to personal growth, self-discovery, and yes, happiness.

On the other hand, loneliness is a feeling of sadness or distress about being by yourself.

Overcoming the fear of being alone is all about shifting your perspective. See this time as an opportunity to grow and enjoy your independence. After all, there’s something liberating about knowing you’re enough on your own.

5) Believing you’re not complete without a partner

There was a time in my life when I felt like I was half of a whole, waiting for the perfect partner to complete me. It was as if I was just a sketch, and a significant other would bring the colors into my life.

But that’s not how it works.

I learned that I am a complete person on my own. My happiness, my fulfillment, my journey, they aren’t dependent on anyone else but me.

You don’t need someone else to complete you. You are already complete.

Happiness comes from within, not from a relationship status. And once you realize this, being single becomes not just bearable, but truly enjoyable.

6) Ignoring personal growth

Being single is a fantastic opportunity for personal growth, but only if you seize it.

Ignoring opportunities for self-improvement and personal development is a common pitfall. Some people choose to stagnate, waiting for a relationship to bring change or excitement into their lives.

But the best way to find happiness as a single person is to continuously strive for growth. Learn new skills, explore new hobbies, invest in your health, chase your dreams.

Personal growth isn’t just about becoming a better person for a future partner; it’s about becoming the best version of yourself, for yourself.

7) Neglecting self-love

The most critical behavior to say goodbye to? Neglecting self-love.

You cannot truly be happy as a single person if you don’t love and respect yourself. Self-love is about accepting who you are, flaws and all, and treating yourself with kindness and respect.

It’s about setting boundaries, taking care of your physical and mental health, and making your happiness a priority.

Without self-love, all the other behaviors we’ve talked about become more challenging to overcome.

Prioritize self-love. Because at the end of the day, the most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself.

The power of choice

The journey to being happily single is deeply intertwined with the decisions we make.

Choosing to say goodbye to these seven behaviors isn’t just about improving your single life. It’s about empowering yourself, about choosing to embrace self-love, growth, and independence. It’s about recognizing that your happiness is in your hands.

Consider the words of psychologist Carl Rogers: “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.”

Being happily single isn’t a destination, but a continuous journey of self-discovery and self-improvement.

As you navigate your solo path, remember that every step you take towards rejecting these behaviors brings you closer to a more fulfilled, happier you. Embrace the journey, embrace the power of choice, and most importantly, embrace yourself.