Can the Life as a Single be Risky? – Yes it Can!

Asking a happy single person if their marital status contains any risk will probably lead to the answer: “No way, what kind of risk should that be? I am independent, free and not committed to anything and I am not likely to cause anyone any harm.” And they are right, they don’t cause harm and they don’t necessarily pose a risk, but what if their single life becomes a risk for them? 

Singles, one might think, strive to find a partner they can share their life with and lead a happy and stable relationship with. But as a matter of fact, almost 50% of all singles say that they are happy with their life as it is and those 50% are actually not actively searching for a partner. And they don’t have to, because singles are proven to have a much bigger network of friends and colleagues than couples in a long-term partnership, so loneliness is not very likely. 

And there are many other advantages of a single life: It is much cheaper than a life with partner and kids, house and dog and whatnot; a single can do what he/she wants whenever he/she wants and doesn’t have to account for anything; singles are more likely to earn more money as they can focus on their career; they can fulfill themselves without showing consideration for anyone; they can go on vacation on their own and have the hobbies they want to; and they can take advantage of changing sex partners and keep their sex lives exciting and fulfilling. 

However, sooner or later, be it consciously or subconsciously, every single feels the urge to built a nest and share their life with only one partner. Combined with the desire to stay free and independent, this might cause a serious inner conflict. Because once a single gets used to his life without a partner, the willingness to commit to a serious relationship and a secure future constantly decreases whereas at the same time, the wish to achieve it is increasing.

Our generation has the highest percentage of singles over 60 ever, 20 years ago there would have been no other way for them but finding a new partner. Nowadays singles over 60 find a lot of companions. Medical and technological progress enables people of all ages to remain young and part of society whether they are single or not. A new trend among older singles is shared houses and flats, where they can spend time together and avoid growing old alone. 

Nevertheless, singles must take good care of their psychological well-being and recognize the signs of life early enough in order not to miss the chance of starting a family. Because once they come to a certain age, this door remains shut and all their friends will get older and spend their time with their families. The risk of ending up lonely is a risk that has to be taken very seriously.