From people declaring their boyfriend-free eras to those embracing the joys of single life, it seems that riding solo is having a bit of a moment in 2025. Even Vogue recently joked that having a boyfriend is maybe even a little bit… embarrassing? The numbers back this up too, with a recent survey showing that 76% of singles haven’t actively tried to find a partner in the past year, and are instead choosing to focus on themselves.
However, it’s no secret that the festive season can make things feel a little trickier. From couples in matching pyjamas splashed across social media to at least one of your best mates getting engaged under a 10-foot tree, Christmas can make even the happiest singles question their choices.
So, with the festive season approaching, as well as Singles Day on 11th November, we decided to survey 1,000 people to find out how they really feel about flying solo. Is having a boyfriend officially embarrassing? Are relationships overrated? And what’s the best thing about single life? Let’s find out!
What do you enjoy most about being single?
So, for all the happy singles out there, what’s the best part about doing life solo? Well, almost half of our participants enjoy the freedom and independence, and 32% love the extra time they have for hobbies.
On a similar note, a quarter of people enjoy having time to focus on their personal goals, while 19% appreciate the financial independence. 18% also mentioned that it has strengthened their friendships, as they have more time for spontaneous hangouts and meaningful connections.
When we look at gender differences, we found that men are more likely to enjoy the freedom that comes with being single (52% vs 44%), while women enjoy diving into hobbies and interests more (36% vs 28%).
Since being single, which area of your life has improved the most?
Being single clearly has its perks, with just over a quarter of people mentioning that their friendships feel much stronger.
Health and fitness (26%) and social lives (26%) were also mentioned, with singles not only feeling more active but also more sociable. Confidence and self-esteem saw a boost too (20%), with plenty of people rediscovering their spark while living life solo.
Finally, 19% said that their finances improved, with men more likely to say this than women (23% vs 15%).
Would you say being single is a choice or circumstance?
We found that 77% of our participants are flying solo by choice, while just 22% said otherwise. When we asked why people are currently single, 33% said that they’re simply happier, while 13% said that dating is just too expensive right now. 12% admitted that they’re mostly happy flying solo, however they are open to meeting someone new.
Interestingly, both men and women are equally happy being single (33%), and both said that they don’t feel much pressure from society to get into a relationship (10%).
Relationship coach, Lorin Krenn, has noticed this change in attitude too, stating: ‘There’s been a shift in how people see being single. It’s no longer viewed as a waiting room before real life begins, but as a powerful stage in its own right. People are realising that being single gives them the time and space to get clear on who they are and what they actually want, instead of rushing into relationships that repeat old patterns.’
How confident do you feel doing things or attending parties solo?
Festive season means party season, which for many singles also means the dreaded walk into the event solo. Oh, and there’s also the inevitable round of questions at Christmas dinner about your job, life, and relationship status…
But here’s the thing, going solo doesn’t have to feel awkward or intimidating. In fact, 60% of our participants thoroughly enjoy it. 31% love their own company and enjoy meeting new people, while 17% said that showing up solo is a choice, not a compromise.
Of course, not everyone feels this confident, with almost a quarter still finding it daunting. Men are also slightly less confident compared to women (28% vs 34%).
Gemma Logan, wedding and relationship expert at The Foxy Hen, shares advice on how to navigate singledom during the holidays:
‘It’s almost guaranteed that at least one relative will ask if you’re “seeing anyone special.” Rather than dreading it, go in prepared. Have a light answer ready, something that shows confidence without defensiveness. You could say, “I’m open to it but right now I’m just enjoying life,” or even, “No one’s managed to keep up yet.” A little humour can take the sting out of the moment and signal that you’re completely fine as you are.’
Final thoughts…
If one thing’s clear from our findings, it’s that being single comes with freedom, growth, and a whole lot of joy. So, whether you’re focusing on your goals, nurturing your friendships, or just enjoying your own company, single life is definitely something to celebrate!
And if you fancy celebrating a friend, sibling, or loved one who’s smashing single life, check out our range of singles cards. From tongue-in-cheek designs to those that are perfect for the festive season, our independent creators have absolutely nailed it.
Or if you’re on the lookout for more fun insights, head over to the thortful blog instead.
