I feel as if the younger generations start dating much earlier than the older generations now, like the age when people start dating decreases every year. Personally I have no experience in this field (I haven't even had a boyfriend, and I'm a senior in high school), and sometimes I wonder why I am single anyways. The answer to that question varies. Some people are single because they choose to be, some are because their parents have a specific age as to when they will let their kids date, and some are simply afraid to throw themselves out into the dating world.
The definition of a relationship is different for everyone. Some people think it's all about making out and physical contact. Others believe it's about emotions, love, and the chocolate and flowers. I think that a relationship is a combo of the two. I feel as if the "honeymoon" phase is initiated when people start dating; everything is perfect because two people have just gotten together; however, as time goes on that phase passes, and that's when arguments come out, and what was a great relationship becomes a roller coaster of smiles and tears.
I feel like I am single because I choose not to be in a relationship; however, the main reason I don't go looking for a boyfriend is because I'm afraid of commitment. I feel as if I could get into a relationship then end up falling too deep and getting my heart broken. I'm sure that is mainly a girl thing and because I am a girl that is why it applies to me, but I'm sure there are many reasons as to why people are single today. And there's nothing wrong with being single. In fact, being single is great, it allows people to find out who they truly are. Having a boyfriend or girlfriend can be amazing, but there are so many relationships out there today where someone's partner influences them to be more like them, which can end in a positive or negative note. For example, in middle school one of my best friends got a boyfriend. Everything was great between them and my friends and I tolerated him because our best friend was his girlfriend; however, we noticed he was totally transforming her into a completely different person. My friend started swearing, becoming really confident, and she even had her first kiss from this guy. As time went on I found myself continuing to support them because it was my duty as a friend, yet I felt uncomfortable with how she was changing for him, and she didn't seem to notice because she was so lost in what she believed was still the "honeymoon" phase of their relationship.
Even though this was just one example of a relationship, that is probably one of the main reasons why people stay single. For me, I am still single because I am a nerd and am afraid of commitment; however, I love being single. Sure, sometimes I get lonely thinking about what my life would be like if I had a boyfriend who would treat me well, however I love being single. Being single means you can solely think about yourself and your well being instead of having to always commit to a relationship and confide in someone else who could easily break your heart.
I walk down the halls at school every day, passing at least one couple holding hands, and at least 2 or 3 couples making out by the lockers. And what irritates me the most is when a couple is walking in front of you and they suddenly stop in the hall and start making out while you have to awkwardly shuffle around them to get to class. Although it is annoying, it makes sense that they want to display PDA and show they are okay with letting everyone see how much they like each other. However, that does not change my opinion. I find myself thinking a lot about why I don't have a boyfriend and how much I would want one, but considering how hectic my life is, being single is great. So many people perceive being single as a disgrace, but it's really not. It allows you to spend more time on yourself and with friends, and you do not have to commit to and maintain a relationship.
Even if you are in a relationship, that's great! I'm definitely not saying relationships are terrible, I'm just emphasizing the fact that those who are single and are depressed about it should not be. They should embrace being single and love it, and always know in the back of their heads that their perfect man or woman is out there in the world somewhere, and if it's meant to be, then they will be brought together by fate.
