Single woman = happy woman? It's a choice!

Being single doesn't mean being lonely. On the contrary, many women today see solitude as a space for freedom, growth, and true joy.

While society often presents loneliness as a tragedy, many middle-aged women see it as a the gift of time and freedom. Podle průzkumu  až 68 % women between 40–50 years old finds life without a partner fulfilling. Why? Because after years of taking care of family, career and compromises, they finally have space to hear one's own voice. And he says: "I'm here mainly for myself."

When the word "woman without a man" is mentioned, many people still think of loneliness, lack, or even sadness. But beware – this cliché is no longer true. Many women 50+ today are discovering the magic of single life and finding that they are not missing anything essential without a partner. On the contrary. They finally have time for themselves, their friends, hobbies, and dreams that they have been putting off for years. And most importantly – they don't have to adapt to anyone.

And psychologists agree – the quality of our relationships is more important than their form. Friendships, sisters, children, a good neighbor, friends at the dance or for coffee – all of these form a network that supports health and soul. So why should a woman without a partner be perceived as “less whole”? Maybe it’s time to stop apologizing for enjoying life differently than the old scripts dictate.

(How solitude prolongs life and why introverts and extroverts choose "solo mode")

• Without compromise: Middle-aged women often face a dilemma: "Should I take a Spanish course or clean out my husband's garage?" Solitude erases this question.
• Practical example: "After my divorce, I discovered that I love silence. Now I travel alone, read late into the night, and no one tells me it's weird," says Jana (48) for News.cz.
• Statistics: According to CZSO women living alone spend about 20 % more time hobbies than those in relationships.

• Room for growth: Solitude allows women to discover forgotten passions – from painting to mountain climbing.
• Career restart: Without the need to coordinate life with a partner, many women embark on new projects or studies.
• Expert quote: "Women after 40 often experience an existential awakening. Solitude is a laboratory for them where they rediscover their selves," explains psychologist Eva Nováková for i60.cz.

Professor Paul Dolan of the London School of Economics claims that the happiest group in the population are single and childless women.

• Less conflict: Study Charles University (2022) showed that women in relationships have about 35 % higher cortisol levels (stress hormone) than single.
• Lifestyle control:
  • Diet: Women living alone are more likely to cook fresh meals and avoid fast food (data Flow-nutrition.cz).
  • Sleep: They do not have to, for example: adapt the regime to a snoring partner.
• Longevity: According to WHO have single women about 15 % lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

• Why: They need time to read, write, or take walks in nature without the need for small talk.
• Typical sentence: "Visits are exhausting me. I'd rather make some tea and listen to a podcast."

• Why: Even social butterflies need to recharge their batteries. Solitude is their "survival mode."
• Tip: "When I come back from a party, I'm silent for the first 30 minutes. Otherwise I'd explode," says marketing director Petra (45).

Single women are happier than married ones. Marriage mainly benefits men!

• Why: After failed relationships, they no longer want to risk drama.
• Statistics: Until 40 % divorced women after 45 years, he deliberately remains single.

• The 70/30 rule: 70 % of time for yourself, 30 % for friends and family.
• Quality over quantity: Instead of parties with ten people, I prefer a cafe with my best friend.
• Hobbies with people: Dancing, volunteering, or library clubs – social interaction without commitment.

• Social isolation: If you don't talk to people for days and feel empty.
• Neglect of care: When you stop cooking, exercising, or liking yourself.
• Help: Therapy or group activities (yoga, classes).

So what if instead of asking “Why are you still single?” we asked ourselves another question: “What does this living space bring me?” The answer can be surprisingly beautiful. If that appeals to you, try writing down three things that make you happy about being single – and feel free to hang them on your fridge. 💌

Life after forty doesn't have to be about finding a partner, but about finding yourself.

And as coach Michaela Procházková says in an interview for Forbes: "It's not about being alone, it's about being comfortable with yourself." Being single is not a failure, a state of emergency, or a way station on the way to a “real” life. It is a full-fledged choice, often accompanied by peace, freedom, and inner strength. So please – let’s stop pitying or fixing single people. There is nothing to cure.

1. If you are tired of company, say to yourself: "I have the right to my time."
2. Start your day with 10 minutes of meditation – find peace within.
3. Plan “solo trips” – for example, to the cinema, a weekend at the cottage or just alone at the PC.

Five "calming" activities that don't work!