The number of single women has hit an all-time high – and most of them aren’t looking for love – according to reports this week.
As figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal that eight per cent of the female population aged 25-44 lives alone (that’s nearly 700,000 – twice as many as 20 years ago), a research paper entitled Understanding the Popularity of Living Alone claims that changes in society have made it more acceptable for women to remain single for longer.
Older women, too, are apparently enjoying living solo. A study funded by the Economic and Social Research Council found that women over 60 who live alone rate their lives as happier and healthier than if they cohabited.
However little faith we might have in studies like these, they undoubtedly point to a growing realisation that being married – especially for women – most certainly isn’t the be all and end all. It is perfectly possible to be alone and have a happy, fulfilling life.
Of course, many women living on their own aren’t doing so out of choice: some are still searching, in their late 30s and early 40s, for Mr Right, whilst others are alone because of a divorce they didn’t want.
Nevertheless, it’s not too difficult to understand why more women are content with singledom: not only is it more socially acceptable, it affords greater freedom and less domestic drudgery. With the world seemingly full of faltering or failed relationships, opting out of the marriage game takes away the risk of future heartache, disappointment and financial uncertainty.
Women no longer need a husband to provide economic security; they are well able to earn a good crust themselves. With less stigma attached to not having children, there is less pressure to find a man before the biological clock has stopped ticking.
Society doesn’t frown anymore on women “of a certain age” going out and having a good time, so there’s no barrier to enjoying a lively, eclectic social life with like-minded people.
In short, there’s never been a better time for women to be single, whatever their age. So if you’re one of those – however reluctantly at the moment – try to focus on the many positive aspects of being on your own. Remember, too, that you’re not, in fact, on your own – there are many other women in the same boat. More than enough for a party, wouldn’t you say?
