What It's Like Being the Only Single Friend in a Group of Couples
For some, being single can feel like a minor misfortune; for others, being the last of your friends to couple up can feel like an endless stretch of isolation and awkward experiences. It’s not necessarily the absence of a partner that causes discomfort—it’s the growing cognitive dissonance and distance between you and your girlfriends that makes everything feel so off.
Sudden changes in schedules and shifts in what constitutes a "night out" might not be ideal, but it’s still possible to navigate this phase of singlehood without adopting a pessimistic outlook. No matter how consumed by their relationships your friends' lives have become, you don’t have to follow their path to maintain a close and affectionate bond. Instead of wallowing in negativity or rushing into an unwanted romance, here’s how to thrive as an independent woman—even when surrounded by happily committed girlfriends.
AVOID INHERENTLY UNCOMFORTABLE SPACES
One of the biggest challenges of being single among coupled-up friends is attending events where you’re the only unattached person in the room. This can lead to feelings of insecurity and isolation. While it might seem bold, the best way to avoid these emotions is to simply steer clear of spaces that trigger them. Although you may feel obligated to attend every event your friends host or join gatherings with their partners, environments dominated by couples can often undermine your self-esteem.
To cultivate genuine happiness, focus on surrounding yourself with positive energy and avoiding situations that feel emotionally draining. Explain to your friends that being the only single person in these settings can be taxing and hurtful to your confidence. Suggest social alternatives that work for everyone, creating a balance that respects your needs and theirs. By setting these boundaries, you can bid farewell to feelings of unease and isolation.
Related articles: Should Married Women Have Single Friends?
BE UNBOTHERED BY EXTERNAL PRESSURES
At times, we’re already so overwhelmed by the constant commentary on our personal lives that when our friends decide to chime in, it can feel like the last straw. Staying optimistic about being single becomes even more challenging when the people we love start offering unsolicited advice on finding a partner. However, there are ways to rise above it! Firmly decline any blind dates they propose and clearly express your lack of interest in their matchmaking efforts. This should help reinforce your independence and discourage their attempts to interfere.
While you might naturally seek your friends’ approval, don’t let their opinions about "settling down" influence your choices—or lack thereof—when it comes to romance. Ignore any rhetoric designed to pressure or scare you into a relationship you don’t genuinely want. There’s no need to rush into something that doesn’t truly excite you.
INDULGE IN UNBRIDLED SINGLEDOM
One of the greatest perks of being single is having complete control over your life, free from the influence of a partner. Without anyone else shaping your decisions, you’re gifted the freedom to be a little selfish and unapologetically pursue your own desires—so, what will you do with it?
Channel your energy into pursuing ambitious goals or embracing opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone. Take the time to explore your lifestyle, seek adventure, and fully embrace the new experiences that come your way. Being spontaneous and uninhibited is one of the true joys of singledom, so lean into it!
Indulge in the pleasures and excitement of life: act on whims, satisfy your curiosities, and enjoy carefree nights of fun. If you’re so inclined, even casual hookups can be part of this liberating chapter in your life. Remember, the key to thriving in singledom is to make every moment count—turn your independence into a celebration of self-discovery and joy.
Related articles: Perpetually Single: What Does It Really Mean?
EXPAND YOUR CURRENT SOCIAL CIRCLE
While asking your friends to revise which events they invite you to is a great way to ensure your social needs are met, you might also benefit from meeting new people with similarly single lifestyles. Your friends can only relate to your unbridled independence to a certain extent, so conversations might feel strained, and schedules could conflict more often. While I’m not suggesting you abandon your inner circle, connecting with a new group of like-minded individuals whose routines align with yours can be incredibly fulfilling.
Expanding your social network doesn’t diminish your current friendships; instead, it gives you an outlet for your more spontaneous ideas and adventurous side. Your new crew will likely share your excitement for impulsivity and spontaneity, allowing you to fully experience the freedom that comes with being single. Once you’ve satisfied your desire for rebellion and exploration, you can return to your original group feeling refreshed and ready to resume your regular dynamic.
EMBRACE SOLO ACTIVITIES
My final piece of advice for embracing your single status is to venture out alone without a trace of shame or self-consciousness. While societal norms often discourage independence—like the stigma around dining alone—defying these expectations can be incredibly empowering. Treat yourself to a solo night out or a midday date dedicated entirely to you! Attend a favorite event, indulge in a beloved hobby, or simply wander through your city at your own pace.
Not having a companion should never stop you from enjoying an outing or pursuing an activity you love. Embracing solo adventures helps normalize independence and breaks down unnecessary stigmas. Pushing past your comfort zone and relishing your own company are at the heart of true self-empowerment. So go ahead—explore, enjoy, and savor the world around you exactly as you wish, without a second thought!
by Caitlin Boos
