People who thrive while single typically possess these 7 unique strengths

Being single often gets a bad rap. Society can make us feel like something is missing when we’re not paired up, as if being single means being incomplete.

But, the truth is, there are many people who are not just happy being single, but actually thrive because of it.

People who thrive while single possess unique strengths that help them build fulfilling lives, without relying on someone else to complete them. They embrace the freedom, independence, and growth that comes with singlehood.

If you’re newly single and want to make the most of this chapter, it’s essential to understand the traits that can help you not just survive being single, but actually thrive.

Let’s dive into the seven strengths that will empower you to embrace your single life and come out stronger on the other side.

1) Independence

According to Geoff MacDonald, a psychologist at the University of Toronto, people who thrive being single are those who have a strong sense of independence.

They’ve learned to:

• Rely on themselves
• Make decisions that are best for them
• Embrace their own company without feeling the need to seek validation from others

But let me be clear: it’s not as easy as it sounds. Becoming truly independent requires a deep level of self-awareness, emotional maturity, and the willingness to step outside your comfort zone. 

The beauty of independence, though, lies in its power. Once you get the hang of it, there’s an incredible sense of empowerment that comes with knowing you are fully in charge of your own life.

The freedom to make decisions without needing approval, the ability to carve out time and space for yourself, and the confidence to trust your own judgment—all of this creates a sense of strength and self-sufficiency that is hard to beat.

2) Self-fulfillment

Here’s a little story.

Back when I was single, I decided to pick up painting. It was something I had always wanted to do but never really found the time for.

So, one day, I just bought a canvas, some paints, and started.

I was terrible at first, but that didn’t matter. It was all about me exploring my own interests and finding fulfillment in them.

That’s the thing about being single.

It gives you the freedom to explore your own passions and interests without having to consider someone else’s schedule or preferences. You get to focus on your self-growth and fulfill your own needs, which in turn boosts your self-confidence and self-esteem.

It’s all about finding satisfaction in your own achievements and personal growth. And trust me, there’s nothing more rewarding than that.

3) Resilience

I’ll be straight with you. Being single isn’t always sunshine and rainbows.

There are days when you might feel the loneliness creeping in, times when you’re the only one without a plus-one at a wedding, or moments when you’re cooking for one and wish there was someone to share it with.

However, the very act of navigating these situations alone builds resilience.

Each time you confront a challenge head-on, you come out stronger on the other side. You learn to bounce back from setbacks, to adapt, and to carry on.

So sure, there are tough times.

But each one of those tough times is an opportunity to build resilience, to learn to stand strong no matter what life throws at you. And that’s a strength not everyone possesses.

4) Self-awareness

One of the most profound things that happened to me when I was single was this – I got to know myself.

Sounds simple, right?

But it’s truly transformative.

When you’re single, you have the uninterrupted time and space to reflect on who you are, what you want in life, what are your strengths and weaknesses, and what makes you genuinely happy.

This level of self-awareness is a unique strength. It helps in making conscious decisions that align with your values and goals.

So, take this time to understand yourself better. To love yourself, for who you truly are.

Because the better you know yourself, the better your relationships with others can be. 

5) Flexibility

Did you know that water is the most flexible element on earth? It adapts to whatever environment it’s in, whether it’s flowing as a river, still as a lake, or even frozen as ice.

Single people often share this same trait – flexibility.

When you’re single, you have the autonomy to make spontaneous decisions without having to consult with anyone else.

Want to try a new cuisine at the drop of a hat? Go for it!

Feel like moving cities for a new job? You can!

This flexibility allows you to adapt quickly to changes and take on opportunities as they come. It’s about being open to life’s twists and turns and embracing them with open arms.

Just like water.

6) Compassion

There’s this saying I wholeheartedly believe in – “To love others, you must first love yourself.”

Being single allows you to develop a deep appreciation and love for yourself. It cultivates self-compassion, which inevitably spills over into your interactions with others.

This is the beauty of compassion – it starts with oneself and then radiates outward.

When you’re kind to yourself, you understand what it means to be kind to others. You’re more likely to empathize with their feelings, show understanding, and extend a helping hand.

Compassion is a strength that not only enriches your life but also touches the lives of those around you. 

7) Happiness

Research shows that single people are happy and satisfied with their lives, regardless of their relationship.

This is because they possess a crucial strength – the ability to find happiness within themselves.

They don’t rely on a partner to complete them or make them happy. Instead, they understand that happiness is a personal journey, one they’re fully capable of undertaking on their own.

They take joy in the simple things in life:

• A good book
• A beautiful sunset
• An accomplished goal

They find happiness within themselves, which makes them inherently content and at peace.

Because at the end of the day, your happiness shouldn’t be dependent on someone else. It should come from you, and only you. 

The takeaway

Thriving while single means embracing the unique strengths that come with it. It’s not just surviving alone—it’s using your independence, self-awareness, and resilience to create a life that feels complete without relying on anyone else.

So if you’re newly single, don’t focus on what society says or feel pressured by others. This is your chance to truly discover who you are, grow in unexpected ways, and live life on your own terms.

Embrace this chapter as a time for empowerment and self-discovery. You’ve got everything you need to make it amazing—trust in your strengths and enjoy the ride!