The Myth of "Happily Ever After": Why Single Life Can Be More Fulfilling
(Liridon
Shala/Pixabay)
Ever since our childhood, fairy tales have been convincing us there
is a "happily ever after" at the end of every story, the kind of
narrative pointing out marriage and romantic relationships as the key to a
happy life.
If we make the move toward Hollywood’s rom-coms, these stories
further bombard us with the idea that ultimate happiness is found in a stable,
lasting relationship.
But what happens when this plot is challenged? Is finding one's
"forever" with someone else indispensable for one to feel complete?
And if the answer is “yes”, then why do people use platforms like InstaCams to connect with other people with no
strings attached?
In this article, we will explore why a single life can be both a
valid choice and a source of satisfaction and fulfillment for many people.
The Cultural Pressure of
"Happily Ever After"
1. The Impact of Society
on Our Choices
We live in a
society that values marriage and romantic relationships as major life goals,
which has led to an ongoing cultural pressure for people to search for a
partner, even when it’s not what they really want or need.
Said pressure
manifests in various ways: From family members' insistent questions about
marriage plans to media portrayals of happy couples, the idea that marriage is
the lifelong goal is everywhere.
Our identity
and personal worth depend on finding a partner, a concept that can be deeply
constraining.
2. The Role of Media and
Fairy Tales
It is no coincidence that, from early on, we are exposed to fairy
tales and stories always ending with a happy marriage. In turn, this narrative
extends into adulthood, where movies and TV series reinforce that happiness is
achievable only through a romantic relationship.
However, this view ignores the complexity of real life and the many
facets of human happiness. Not all people find fulfillment in a relationship,
and not all marriages lead to bliss.
Indeed, desperately trying to conform to this ideal can lead to
hasty choices and a sense of dissatisfaction in the long run.
The Hidden Joys of Single
Life
1. The Freedom to Explore
Yourself
The freedom of being single is hard to find in a
relationship. It’s not just about being able to do what you want, when you want
– it’s also about exploring who you are without the pressure or expectations of
being with a partner.
When we are
single, we can devote ourselves fully to our interests, develop new passions
and focus on our wellbeing. This space for personal growth can lead to deeper
self-awareness and a more authentic and fulfilling life.
2. The Appreciation of
Platonic Relationships
Another often underestimated
aspect of a single life is the importance of platonic relationships. Friends,
family, and colleagues can offer emotional support and connection in ways that
are no less fulfilling than romantic relationships.
Cultivating
these relationships can lead to a more diverse and stable support network that
does not depend on a single individual for their emotional wellbeing.
Embracing Independence:
Living Life on Your Terms
1. The Power of Personal
Autonomy
One of the most significant benefits of single life is the
opportunity to embrace independence. When single, we can decide based solely on
our wants and needs. This sense of autonomy can be incredibly empowering and
rewarding.
Living on our terms without having to make constant compromises is
one of the greatest joys a single life can offer. This independence does not
necessarily mean being alone; instead, we choose with whom we share our time
and experiences without giving up who we are.
2. Personal Growth
Without Limits
Being single
also allows for unlimited personal growth. In a relationship, it is common for
our dreams and goals to be influenced by our partner's needs and desires.
When single,
we can focus completely on what we want to achieve both professionally and
personally.
Breaking the Patterns:
Reinventing One's Narrative of Happiness
Happiness Doesn't Depend
on a Relationship
One of the most liberating aspects of a single life is the
realization that happiness does not necessarily depend on a relationship. Many
people find their greatest satisfaction precisely when they learn to be happy
alone.
Loneliness, often seen as a negative aspect, is a conscious and
positive choice. Celebrating solitude means recognizing the value of time spent
with oneself and using it to reflect, grow and regenerate. This does not mean
that relationships cannot be an important part of life, but they should not be
seen as the only path to happiness.
Plus, single life allows people to explore different forms of
connection, including through platforms where it is possible to meet people
worldwide, such as InstaCams.
Living a single life is the ability to cultivate relationships that
enrich rather than limit one's life.