Are Women Better Off Single? New Survey Reveals This May Be True
The festive season can be a lot, as the fairy lights twinkle and your feed fills with couples posing under mistletoe or matching pyjama sets, it’s easy for singletons to feel a pang of festive FOMO. But this year, the mood is shifting. After that viral Vogue article declared that having a boyfriend might actually be embarrassing, many of us are starting to rethink what happiness looks like. Maybe the real power move this Christmas isn’t coupling up, it’s choosing yourself.
In celebration of National Singles Day on the 11th of November, the greetings card marketplace, the company thortful surveyed UK singles to uncover how people really feel about being solo during the festive season, and the results may lead to a single revolution, especially for women. In fact, 77% of people say being single is an active choice, with a third admitting they’re happier that way. Both men and women agree that societal pressure to pair up is fading, too.
Lorin Krenn, internationally renowned Relationship Coach, says this newfound confidence isn’t a coincidence. “There’s been a shift in how people see being single. It’s no longer viewed as a waiting room before real life begins, but as a powerful stage in its own right. People are realising that being single gives them the time and space to get clear on who they are and what they actually want, instead of rushing into relationships that repeat old patterns.”
She adds, “The growing celebration of single life reflects a cultural shift. More people are defining fulfilment on their own terms, realising that peace and purpose come from within, not from meeting external expectations.”
What We Love Most About Being Single.
When singles were being asked what they enjoy about solo life, the answers screamed independence.
- Freedom and independence – 48%
- More time for hobbies – 32%
- Focusing on personal goals – 25%
- Financial independence – 19%
- Stronger friendships – 18%
Interestingly, the data revealed some gender differences. Men are slightly more likely to relish their independence (52% vs 44%), while women lean into their passions, with 36% saying they value having more time for hobbies.
Can being single improve your life?
While relationships have their perks, such as split utility bills, date nights, and cuddles on demand, many singles are noticing real benefits from going it alone. The survey done by thortful revealed that friendships and fitness dramatically improve when single.
- Friendships – 28%
- Health and fitness – 26%
- Social life – 26%
- Confidence / self-esteem – 20%
- Finances – 19%
For women, they appear to thrive even more than men when single, as the data shared that women’s friendships improve more than men’s (33% F vs 23% M), women’s self-esteem and confidence soar (27% F vs 13% M), and women feel more confident attending social events solo (34% F vs 28% M).
How to enjoy the festive season solo.
If you’re still feeling anxious about spending the holidays without a plus-one, we’ve gathered expert advice to help you own it.
Keep Your Confidence Topped Up
Gemma Logan, wedding and relationship expert at The Foxy Hen, says, “Confidence during the holidays comes from taking care of your energy. That means saying yes only to the things you genuinely want to do. If big parties aren’t your thing, arrange smaller get-togethers. If you love being out and about, sign up for a festive event or a group activity where you’ll meet new people naturally. Confidence doesn’t come from pretending you’re fine.”
Take the Pressure Off
Gemma also adds, “The biggest gift you can give yourself this year is to stop measuring your life against other people’s timelines. Being single isn’t a problem to solve; it’s a chapter to enjoy. Instead of focusing on what’s missing, think about what you get to do because you’re single. You can travel last minute, spend Christmas morning exactly how you want, or decide on a whim to have a quiet one or a party. Freedom is underrated, especially at this time of year.”
Handle the Awkward Questions Gracefully
If you’re dreading relatives and friends asking unwanted questions, Gemma suggests coming prepared.
“It’s almost guaranteed that at least one relative will ask if you’re “seeing anyone special.” Rather than dreading it, go in prepared. Have a light answer ready, something that shows confidence without defensiveness. You could say, “I’m open to it but right now I’m just enjoying life,” or even, “No one’s managed to keep up yet.” A little humour can take the sting out of the moment and signal that you’re completely fine as you are.”
Nourish, Don’t Numb
Relationship expert Giovanna Smith at Perfect Fusions adds, ”It’s easy to fill emotional space with overindulgence, food, drink, or scrolling. Instead, plan activities that truly lift your energy: walks in nature, dance classes, journaling, or booking something new for the new year, maybe try a new approach to dating like a matchmaker!“
Visualise What’s Next
She also suggests, “Use the quieter moments of the holidays to reflect on what kind of relationship you truly desire. What values matter most? What lessons have you learned from past connections? This mindset shift prepares you to meet love from a grounded, confident place.”
A spokesperson from thortful shares, “Singledom should be celebrated and it’s empowering to see so many people taking control of their life from personal, professional, and financial aspects, and revelling in them. In fact, we embrace being single just as much as being in a relationship, which is why we encourage people to celebrate either yourself, or loved ones who are single this festive season and beyond!”