Stigma

Forget everything you’ve heard about being single— starting with the assumption that it means ready to mingle. The marriage rate has been decreasing for decades, and more people than ever before are living solo: nearly 40% of adults in the U.S. are un-partnered, up from 29% in 1990, according to the Pew Research Center. About half aren’t interested in dating or a relationship.

As the new science of singlehood crystallizes, here are some of the most intriguing lessons researchers have uncovered about how to pursue a fulfilling, meaningful, and psychologically rich solo life.

1. Identify the upside: freedom, independent, creativity, and nonconformity.
2. Don’t rush to couple up: find ways to enjoy your current relationship status.
3. Tend to your friends: those without a parter usually have more friends.
4.  Embrace a healthy sex life: those with higher sexual satisfaction tend to report less desire to marry.
5. Ignore any stigma: live your single life fully, and joyfully.