National Singles Day

Celebrating the Solo Life in Style

On National Singles Day, we throw confetti in the air and raise a glass (or two) to everyone who's rocking the solo life. It’s a day dedicated to embracing the freedom, independence, and fabulousness that come with being single. While there are holidays for couples and families aplenty, National Singles Day is a well-deserved spotlight on those who are flying solo – whether by choice, circumstance, or a particularly bad date involving a questionable appetizer.

A Brief History of National Singles Day

While the idea of celebrating singles might feel like a modern concept, its roots go deeper than just a counterbalance to Valentine’s Day. National Singles Day emerged in the early 1980s, a time when society was beginning to recognize that not everyone was rushing toward the altar or coupling up by societal standards. The Buckeye Singles Council in Ohio, a pioneering group focused on supporting unmarried individuals, first launched this celebration as a way to recognize the contributions and lifestyles of single people.

Initially, the focus was on shifting perceptions. Being single was often viewed as a temporary state that needed fixing, but National Singles Day aimed to rewrite the narrative. It sought to demonstrate that singles weren’t just waiting for their “real lives” to start; they were already living vibrant, fulfilling lives. This day wasn’t about anti-marriage sentiments either – it was simply about embracing singlehood as its own, legitimate path.

The timing of National Singles Day is no accident. It falls during National Singles Week, which coincides with September’s celebration of personal independence, self-reliance, and individual achievement. The week itself was created to highlight the increasing number of single adults in America, particularly as demographic shifts were showing that more people were choosing to remain single longer or indefinitely. In fact, by the late 20th century, single-person households were becoming the fastest-growing demographic in the U.S. – a trend that continues today.

Interestingly, National Singles Day didn’t just take off in the U.S. In China, for example, Singles Day (celebrated on November 11th) has become a massive commercial holiday, complete with shopping sprees and online sales. Though the origins are different – China’s Singles Day originally began as a celebration among university students – the spirit is quite similar: both are about celebrating singlehood unapologetically.

Unlike many other holidays that focus on traditional family units or romantic relationships, National Singles Day was created to celebrate the independence, strength, and diversity of single people. It champions the idea that one’s worth is not defined by their relationship status but by the richness of their life experiences.

So while some may see National Singles Day as a lighthearted or even tongue-in-cheek holiday, its origins are rooted in the recognition of a rapidly changing social landscape – one where singles are celebrated not as people in waiting, but as complete individuals already making their mark on the world.

The Beauty of Being Single

Being single comes with perks that sometimes get overshadowed by a society that’s a little too obsessed with pairings. Here's a gentle reminder of why being single is a goldmine of opportunity:

• Freedom of the Remote: Ever had to fight over the TV remote? No? That’s right. You’ve got 100% control over what you watch, from bingeing true crime documentaries to that obscure reality show no one admits they like. It's all yours.
• Food Choices Are Yours Alone: Whether it’s ordering pineapple on your pizza or eating cereal for dinner three nights in a row, the culinary world is your oyster. No need to compromise, consult, or explain your bold food decisions to anyone. It's truly liberating.
• You Run Your Schedule: Feel like staying up until 3 a.m. watching movies, then sleeping in until noon? Go for it. Want to spontaneously take a weekend trip or dive into a new hobby? Being single means no “we” to consult. It’s all about what you want, when you want.
• No Awkward In-Laws: Enough said.

What to Do on National Singles Day

National Singles Day is more than just a day of recognition – it’s a celebration! Whether you’re content with your solo status or still navigating the waters of dating apps, here are a few fun ways to spend the day:

• Throw a Singles Party: Gather up your single friends and have a blast celebrating yourselves. No awkward couple activities like trying to match dance moves – this is a night for solo karaoke, guilt-free indulgence in snacks, and binge-watching your favorite shows.
• Self-Care Extravaganza: What better way to celebrate than pampering yourself? Treat yourself to a spa day, take that yoga class you've been eyeing, or simply binge your favorite guilty-pleasure show in your coziest sweats.
• Date Yourself: Ever wanted to try that restaurant without waiting for someone to join you? Go for it! Being your own best company is the ultimate flex. Plus, you can order dessert without worrying if someone else is trying to “be good” with a salad.
• Swipe Right (or Left): If you’re feeling adventurous, you can jump back into the dating pool – or just swipe left on everyone and call it a day. No pressure.

Famous Singles Who’ve Rocked It

You’re in good company! Throughout history, many famous singles have carved their paths, proving that you don’t need a partner to be successful. Take a look:

• Oprah Winfrey: While Oprah has been in a long-term relationship, she’s never tied the knot. Instead, she built an empire, helping millions of people improve their lives along the way.
• Leonardo da Vinci: One of the most brilliant minds in history, da Vinci didn’t spend his time chasing love – he was too busy inventing, painting, and thinking up things way ahead of his time.
• Jane Austen: The queen of romance novels? Single! Jane Austen penned some of the most beloved love stories in history, yet never married herself.

These icons remind us that you don’t need a romantic partner to lead an exciting, fulfilling life. In fact, being single has a certain allure – it’s a blank slate, ready for you to write your own adventure.

Debunking the "Sad Single" Myth

Let’s face it – there’s a stereotype out there that singles must be sad or lonely. But National Singles Day gives us the perfect opportunity to flip that script. Being single is often a choice, and it’s not one that needs to be pitied. In fact, studies show that single people tend to be more social and physically active than their coupled counterparts. Single folks often have more time to pursue hobbies, friendships, and personal growth.

So, the next time someone gives you the ol’ “Don’t worry, you’ll find someone,” smile and nod, knowing that you’re already living your best life. Besides, do they even have control over their Netflix queue?

On National Singles Day, embrace the freedom, independence, and excitement that come with being unattached. Whether you’re reveling in the peaceful quiet of a solo evening or dancing with friends who also happen to be unpartnered, today is your day to shine.

So, celebrate! No need to share the spotlight – it’s all yours.

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