Being single isn’t always a walk in the park—especially when movies and television shows seem to push the concept that you aren’t truly “complete” until you’ve found a significant other.

People’s single lives are often portrayed as a sort of purgatory they are forced to endure until they find their soul mates. But experts say these stereotypes couldn’t be further from the truth. Studies found that single people self-reported levels of well-being that was similar to participants in relationships. And there are plenty of benefits that come along with living your life free of a romantic relationship. Here are a few, according to experts:

  1. Your mind is uncluttered
  2. You’re more open to whatever life throws your way
  3. You have time to get in touch with yourself
  4. You have a chance to figure out what you want out of life
  5. It’s a chance to become financially responsible
  6. You can make self-care a priority
  7. You learn to enjoy your own company

A lot of people get sad about being single too. They think it is a negative thing, but we don’t agree! Being single means that you can focus on yourself. Plus, they often say that you need to learn to love yourself before you can love anyone else, right? Being single enables you to focus on being number one.

This is something that we should celebrate, not look down on, and that’s exactly what the people of China do! This day has been created so that people can show their pride in being single, and it is a day that is now celebrated in many places across the world.

Another great way that you can celebrate this way is by writing an appreciation list. Who for? Yourself, of course! Write a list of all of the things that you love about yourself, and post it to social media. This could be anything from the fact that you went to the gym or that you made yourself a good meal. Make a list and share it online, inspiring your other friends and family members to do the same thing. We don’t all celebrate self-love or promote it as much as we should, and so today is the perfect day to do so!

Today is also the perfect day for you to splurge on something that you simply wouldn’t do on a normal day-to-day basis. If you have wanted to buy a pair of designer sunglasses for some time now, go for it! If you have wanted to go to a fancy restaurant for some time, today is the day!

WHY WE LOVE SINGLES DAY

  1. You get to shop for yourself

    Sure, it’s fun getting gifts on your birthday, Christmas, but how can people know what you really want? Today, you get to shop for you. I’m not just talking about buying yourself flowers or a nice meal. Today is the day to show yourself some real love and appreciation. Go on, indulge. Get that new leather jacket, or a pair of heels—you have earned it.

  2. You can see you really aren’t alone

    Most newspapers, magazines, TV shows and movies make it seem like everyone is coupled up. (Like, how come nobody ever chooses “it’s complicated” for their relationship status, anymore?) But, since 2014, single adults outnumber married adults in the United States—and the difference is only growing. Take time today to revel in the knowledge that YOU, single person, are part of the majority!

  3. You can do what you want when you want to

    What do you want to eat tonight? Where would you like to vacation? Is it ok to splurge on those jeans you’ve been eying? When you’re single, you can do what makes you happy. No compromises necessary.

Happy Singles Day!