Would you rather be married than single?

Is It Better to Be Married or Single?

Ever wondered whether it’s better to be married or single? The question itself sets up the false premise that there is a right answer. The truth is that there are benefits and drawbacks to these potentially very different lifestyles. And, even more to the point, this decision is more about what’s right for you than what any research or expert has to say.

If you are most comfortable being part of a committed couple, then there are no facts or arguments that will make being single right for you. And, if you are most comfortable being single, then no facts or arguments will make being married right for you. Of course, life experience has a way of changing people’s minds – even about things they were sure of. And this is especially true in the domain of love – as so many Hollywood movies remind us. Still, to be true to yourself, you need to respect who you are now.

For those who lean toward wanting a single life, there are certainly some important benefits. While everyone has obligations and responsibilities, life has less of them when you are single. And without a partner to take up much of your free time, you have more opportunity to devote to other activities. You can spend more time with friends and family. You can devote yourself more to work without having to be concerned about how this affects a spouse. And you can get more fully involved with your personal interests and hobbies. Still, when life gets tough, you may not have a built-in support system – though many people do create this for themselves with other family and friends. Read more...

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