So you’re currently without a main squeeze—big freakin’ deal. While seeing all your coupled-up friends canoodling can make you feel down about your solo status, the reality is that there’s a lot to enjoy about singlehood.

“Many women see that time as just a waiting period between boyfriends and don’t allow themselves to make the most of it,” says therapist Karen Gail Lewis, author of With or Without a Man. “But there’s no better time to learn about yourself, explore opportunities, and finally do all the things you were too busy to do with a boyfriend.” All it takes is the right mindset, so follow these strategies for feeling fabulous solo.

Indulge Your Desires
When you’re single, you can live life on your own terms. Meaning: You can move to a new city to advance your career or jet off to Palau for a week without having to take someone else’s wants or needs into account. “Single women have more freedom, often see more of their friends, and have more opportunities to do what they want,” says Bella DePaulo, PhD, a social psychologist who studies singles and their place in society.

You also have the time to pursue interests you may have put on the back burner when you had a beau. Let’s be honest: It’s hard to squeeze in me-time when you’ve got a man. So take advantage of this free period to travel, take a new class, or get on a self-improvement kick.

Between her full-time job and her full-time relationship, Lara, 28, never had time for herself. “When Jake and I broke up, I threw myself back into yoga. I started going four days a week, including a Sunday morning class that replaced my usual brunch with the boyfriend. I’m not only more relaxed and confident, but I’m in the best shape of my life.”

cotton yuson wrote this on June 19th, 2008 and filed it under Brutal Breakups, Places to Meet Singles, Single Life |