8 traits of people who are better off staying single, according to psychology

Some people thrive in relationships, while others are simply better off on their own. And that’s okay.

Being single isn’t a bad thing—it can actually be the best choice for certain personality types. While society often pushes the idea that everyone should settle down, psychology suggests that some people are happier, healthier, and more fulfilled when they stay single.

It all comes down to personality traits. Some traits make relationships easier, while others make them more of a struggle. And for certain people, the freedom and independence of single life just suit them better.

Here are eight traits of people who are better off staying single.

1) They value independence over everything

Some people enjoy companionship, but others feel their best when they have complete freedom.

If you find yourself craving independence more than connection, relationships might not be the best fit for you. Psychology suggests that highly independent people can struggle with the compromises and commitments that come with being in a relationship.

It’s not that they don’t care about others—it’s just that they thrive when they’re in control of their own time, decisions, and lifestyle.

For these people, staying single isn’t a lonely choice. It’s a way to live life on their own terms, without having to constantly consider someone else’s needs.

2) They get frustrated by compromise

Relationships require constant give-and-take, but for some people, that back-and-forth can feel exhausting.

I learned this the hard way in my last serious relationship. Every decision—where to eat, what movie to watch, even how to arrange the furniture—became a negotiation. At first, I thought that was normal. But over time, I realized that constantly having to adjust my preferences for someone else’s made me feel drained rather than happy.

Psychologists say that people who struggle with compromise often find relationships more frustrating than fulfilling. If you prefer making decisions without having to check in with someone else, single life might just be a better fit for you.

3) They are more productive when alone

Some people thrive in relationships, but others do their best work when they’re on their own.

Studies have found that solitude can boost productivity, creativity, and focus. Without the distractions or emotional demands of a relationship, some individuals find they can accomplish more, set clearer goals, and fully dedicate themselves to their passions.

For these people, being single isn’t about avoiding love—it’s about making the most of their time and energy. Rather than feeling lonely, they feel empowered by the ability to focus entirely on their personal growth and ambitions.

4) They are drawn to Buddhist principles of non-attachment

Buddhism teaches that attachment is the root of suffering. When we cling too tightly to people, expectations, or outcomes, we set ourselves up for disappointment and pain.

Some individuals naturally resonate with this idea. They feel more at peace when they aren’t tied down by relationships and the emotional ups and downs that come with them. Instead, they prefer to focus on personal growth, mindfulness, and living in the present moment.

In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I explore how embracing non-attachment can lead to a more fulfilling and stress-free life. For those who find relationships emotionally draining or restrictive, adopting a mindset of non-attachment might be the key to greater happiness.

For some, love and commitment are essential parts of life. But for others, true peace comes from letting go and walking their own path.

5) They feel suffocated in relationships

Love is supposed to feel good, but for some people, relationships can start to feel more like a cage than a source of happiness.

At first, everything seems fine. But slowly, the constant check-ins, shared plans, and expectations begin to weigh heavier and heavier. What starts as a loving connection turns into something that feels restrictive—like there’s never enough space to just *be*.

It’s not about not caring. It’s about needing air, needing freedom, needing room to move without always factoring in another person. And when that space disappears, so does the sense of self.

Some people are wired to thrive in relationships. Others simply function better when they have full control over their own life. And there’s nothing wrong with that.

6) They love deeply—but not in the way most people expect

Just because someone is better off single doesn’t mean they don’t experience deep love. In fact, some of the most independent people feel love in a way that’s just as intense—if not more—than those in relationships.

But instead of channeling that love into one romantic partner, they spread it across different areas of life: friendships, passions, creativity, and even a sense of connection to the world itself.

For them, love isn’t about possession or exclusivity. It’s about presence, appreciation, and freedom. And sometimes, the truest way for them to love is by not being tied down at all.

7) They find fulfillment outside of romance

For many people, relationships are a major source of happiness and meaning. But for others, fulfillment comes from different places—personal growth, career ambitions, creative pursuits, or deep friendships.

They don’t feel an emptiness that needs to be filled by a romantic partner. Instead, they feel whole on their own. Romance might be enjoyable for a while, but it’s never the *thing* that makes life feel complete.

When someone already has a strong sense of purpose and contentment without a relationship, forcing one can feel unnecessary—or even like a distraction from what truly matters to them.

8) They are genuinely happy on their own

Some people see being single as a temporary phase, something to be fixed or escaped. But for others, it’s not a problem—it’s their natural state.

They don’t feel lonely. They don’t feel like they’re missing out. They wake up each day content with their life exactly as it is.

Happiness isn’t about following society’s expectations. It’s about knowing yourself well enough to choose the life that truly makes you feel free, fulfilled, and at peace.

Bottom line: happiness looks different for everyone

Society often pushes the idea that happiness is found in love, commitment, and partnership. But the truth is, not everyone is wired the same way. Some people genuinely thrive on their own, finding fulfillment in solitude, personal growth, and complete freedom over their lives.

In many ways, this aligns with Buddhist teachings on self-awareness and non-attachment. In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I explore how letting go of societal expectations can lead to a more peaceful and meaningful life.

At the end of the day, the most important thing isn’t whether someone is single or in a relationship—it’s whether they are truly at peace with the life they’ve chosen. Happiness isn’t about fitting into a mold. It’s about knowing yourself well enough to create a life that feels right for *you*.