It sometimes seems like the only path to happiness is with a partner. Just look at TV commercials, rom-coms, and Hallmark cards. Sure, being with someone is special, but single life is just as satisfying. You don’t need to be part of a couple to be complete, and it’s about time that the world wakes up and realizes that happiness comes from within, with or without a significant other to share it with.

Whether you are single by choice or due to circumstance, embracing your freedom and all the fun you can have solo is exciting. Being partner-free doesn’t mean loneliness. It gives you opportunity to explore and engage, all on your own terms and in your own time.

I’m in a relationship, and it gives me great joy. That said, when I was single, I felt just as fulfilled, just in a different way. Life has its steps and stages. It’s important to take in every moment, appreciate the present, and free your mind of the “What ifs?” and focus on the “What now?”

Perhaps “The One” is somewhere out there (if that’s what you want), but for now, it’s all about self-acceptance, a zest for life, and the understanding that your peace and prosperity comes from personal experience and positive energy.

Here are three ways single people can stay happy and fulfilled. You deserve the best, so dig in and do it.

 

Form Friendships

 

 

 

 

 

 

You may have a large circle of friends or just one or two you can count on, but there’s always room for new platonic relationships. It can be tricky to make new friends as an adult, but when you’re open to stepping outside your comfort zone, you’ll give off a vibe that’s welcoming and accepting.

Seek out like-minded individuals by volunteering, taking classes, or just being extra-friendly when you’re going about your errands and daily to-dos. You can meet new people at the gym, in line at the grocery store, or while you’re walking your dog.

All too often, we keep to ourselves and lose the opportunity to find a friend. Smile at a stranger and you may just find a connection.

 

Be Healthy

 

 

 

 

 

Make yourself your number one priority by eating well, exercising, meditating, and treating yourself to the extras that give you a good feeling. When you’re at your best, you feel awake and alive.

If we don’t tend to our mind, body, and spirit, we can fall into a slump. We think the answer comes from the outside – perhaps in a mate – but the real solution is self-care and mind-body management.

Go for whole foods, lots of hydration, regular workouts, and plenty of sleep. Erase negative thoughts and give yourself the go-ahead to reach new goals and greater self-awareness.

It’s not about looking a certain way or pleasing anyone else. Good health is personal and productive. Put your all into it, and you’ll be enough all on your own.

 

Delve Into Your Passion

 

 

 

 

 

 

When you’re single, you don’t have to split your time to tend to your partner. Not to say that sharing and giving isn’t a blessing, but if you’re single, you can focus all your energy inward.

Pick up a new hobby or get more involved in one you already enjoy. Work harder to get that promotion or just to prove you have the potential. Maybe you want to record a song or take a cooking class. Focus on the less fortunate by giving back/paying it forward, adopt a pet, or run a marathon.

Whatever your dreams may be, being single affords you the time to tackle your ambitions and achieve. Celebrate your success with a dinner for one, a toast to your determination, and self-love…lots of it.