Last updated on: December 21, 2024
Life at 34 and Single: Embracing Reality and Finding Joy
At 34, I find myself single and content, despite what societal expectations might suggest. I’m not married—not because I avoided it, but because circumstances and my own aspirations led me here. In my younger years, I was fueled by dreams of doing something different, something big. Looking back, I realize much of that drive was the exuberance of youth, filled with grand ambitions that didn’t pan out as expected.
Today, as I reflect on my journey, I see how society defines “settling down.” To many, being “settled” means having a stable job, getting married, having kids, and living a predictable life. But the reality I’ve observed is more complex. Married people, while often admired for their commitment and stability, are juggling endless responsibilities—family, work, and their own personal dreams. It’s a relentless pursuit of “the top,” a vision they carry in their minds.
The Illusion of the Perfect Life
When I observe people around me, I often feel they are trapped in a cycle. Married life, with all its joys and struggles, can sometimes resemble a roller-coaster ride with no way out. Add children to the mix, and the complexity deepens. While kids bring immense happiness, they also come with responsibilities that demand sacrifices—of time, money, and sometimes, dreams.
This isn’t to diminish the beauty of marriage and family life. But it’s crucial to acknowledge the challenges. A harmonious married life requires mutual surrender—a willingness to compromise and adapt to each other’s needs. Without this, the journey can become turbulent.
For me, staying single has meant freedom. I cherish the simplicity of my life. No children to raise, no EMIs to pay, and no societal benchmarks to meet. It’s not about avoiding responsibilities but rather about embracing a different kind of life—a life that aligns with my reality and values.
Is it Better to just being Single?
Being single at 34 isn’t a burden; it’s a choice that brings its own happiness. Here’s why I find joy in my single life:
- Freedom to Explore: Without family obligations, I have the liberty to explore hobbies, travel, and pursue personal interests.
- Financial Independence: I don’t feel pressured to meet societal standards like owning a house or affording expensive lifestyles. Instead, I focus on my priorities.
- Self-Discovery: Being single has given me the time and space to understand myself better. It’s an opportunity to grow emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
Breaking Free from Illusions
In many ways, both married and single people live with illusions. Married couples might be chasing the idea of the perfect family or career, while singles might fantasize about absolute freedom or unending happiness. But the truth lies somewhere in between.
Recognizing reality is liberating. It allows us to stop comparing ourselves to others and focus on what truly matters—our own contentment and growth. Whether married or single, we all face challenges. What’s important is how we approach them and find meaning in our lives.
Finding Excitement and Joy as a Single Person
For singles like me, life can be fulfilling when we nurture our passions and interests. Here are some ideas to make the journey exciting and joyful:
- Pursue a Hobby: Whether it’s painting, photography, cooking, or writing, hobbies provide a creative outlet and a sense of accomplishment.
- Stay Active: Physical fitness not only keeps you healthy but also boosts mental well-being. Try yoga, hiking, or a sport you enjoy.
- Learn New Skills: Pick up a new language, learn coding, or take up gardening—skills add value to your life and keep things interesting.
- Build Meaningful Relationships: Being single doesn’t mean being alone. Surround yourself with friends, family, and a supportive community.
- Travel and Explore: Solo travel is an incredible way to discover new cultures and broaden your horizons.
A Life True to Yourself
At the end of the day, being single is neither superior nor inferior to being married—it’s simply a different path. Life is about finding joy and purpose in whatever path you choose. For me, being single has been a journey of self-discovery, freedom, and happiness.
Society may have its expectations, but happiness doesn’t come from ticking boxes on someone else’s checklist. It comes from living authentically, embracing your reality, and finding joy in the small and big things that make life meaningful.
Whether you’re married or single, life is what you make of it. For me, at 34, I’ve chosen to celebrate the present, nurture my passions, and live with excitement and joy—one day at a time.