In a 2019 survey conducted by the General Social Survey, 51% of Americans between the ages of 18 and 35 have admitted to being single. Though others might consider these numbers unusual, there is actually nothing wrong with enjoying your independence a little longer than others. Here, you will find out why being single in your thirties can empower you to live the best years of your life.
An Exception to the Rule
Let’s face it. By the time you reach 30, most of your friends are already married and are raising their kids. That life path is what most people are taking because it is what they consider “normal.” But just because settling down is the societal standard of what a person should do once they reach a certain age means you also have to conform.
Focus on Your Career
We’re not saying that a husband or children can hinder you from building a solid career. In fact, they serve as inspirations for many working women with family. The only difference is that you have more time in your hands to put on your career than if you have kids to take care of.
Being in your 30s also provides you a better perception of what you want to achieve in your career than when you are in your 20s. You can take on new projects, train and improve your skillset or apply for that position you’ve been eyeing on for a long time.
Start a New Hobby
It is never too late to learn new things. We’ve all heard that phrase one too many times, and it is popular for a reason. Everyone must have a hobby or interest that they put on the sidelines because of our many responsibilities in adulthood.
In reality, being 30 and matured gives you the open mind needed to learn new things. It may be the piano lesson you’ve always wanted when you were a kid or the pole-dancing class that you think is cool to attend.
You can also make use of today’s technology by starting a blog that talks about all the many things in life that you are passionate about. There is also the hyped-up trend today called vlogging. Go start an online channel and show the rest of the world how exciting single life can be.
Pay Attention to Your Health
You are not getting any younger and at this point. You may be juggling several things, such as your career and social life. But being busy at work should not be a reason why you cannot focus on your health. You may be looking fit and fab on the outside, but there are common health risks for women your age, including:
- Weight Gain – Your metabolism slows down once you hit your 30s. A slow metabolism makes it easier for your body to gain pounds. If the number keeps increasing, you will find yourself at risk of other illnesses, such as hypertension and heart disease.
- Diabetes – Roughly 37% of Americans between the ages of 25 and 35 are diagnosed with pre-diabetes. This is the best time for you to visit your doctor and have your sugar level checked.
- Cervical Cancer – 78% of women between the ages of 30 and 39 are diagnosed with early-onset cervical cancer. Because of this spike in statistics, the American Cancer Society strongly suggests that you undergo regular HIV and Pap tests once you hit 30.
Taking care of your health doesn’t necessarily mean going through serious medical procedures. You can begin the journey by being more conscious of what you eat, making sure you are getting enough rest despite your busy schedule, and staying away from regular smoking and drinking. Remember that you only have one body, and a healthy one is the key to living a good life.
Go and See the World
Traveling may not be the most ideal thing to do now that we are in the middle of the pandemic. However, there is nothing wrong with making a few plans. Take out that travel agency brochure you’ve been keeping in your drawer or take a look at several travel websites. This may also be the perfect opportunity for you to reconnect with friends and family that you haven’t seen in a long time.
If you don’t feel like having a set plan or a single destination, then that’s also fine. Once the pandemic is over, just go ahead and backpack across the continent that you love. Avoid overdoing the plan, and let your feet and heart guide you to where you want to go.
Open Up Your Heart to Possibilities
Whether being single during your 30s is by choice or not, there is nothing wrong with opening up to possibilities. Expand your social circle and enjoy the time that you have getting to know new people. Make friends, and enjoy deep, meaningful conversations.
You can also try signing up for matchmaking services if you’re feeling a bit adventurous. Let an expert help you in connecting to people that have the same interests as you. It may be a little scary at first. Although you and the person matched with you start out as strangers, they can also be special in your life later on.
There is nothing wrong with being 30 and single. In a world where society forces us to live by what it believes is “normal,” staying true to yourself is already an act of rebellion. Remember, you are a strong, fun, and independent woman, and the whole world is your playground.