OK I am going to be radical here. I think we are, as a society, all very stuck on the idea of coupledom. As a single woman there are many ways in which single women (don't know about men) are casually thought of as sad. I don't think of myself that way, but I pick up the vibe at times. If you put status as single or divorced people actually say things like 'Never mind, I am sure Mr Right is waiting for you'!
Being on your own after a long relationship (and in my case, as many here a happy one), is quite tough. I absolutely knew that I wasn't in any fit state to date. And now I think that I don't want a relationship. I have amazing friends, and a wonderful family. I am not scared of being hurt any more. I just don't think I have the emotional energy for a relationship, nor do I see it as a goal in life any more. I love being independent.
Not saying there is anything wrong with having a relationship as a goal or ambition - for many people, and at certain seasons of our life it is absolutely the right thing, but it isn't the only way to live. The alt in particular seems to celebrate couples, relationships and togetherness in a very strange way.
If you don't want to date, it isn't the only way to live, as you know. Aloneness isn't the same as loneliness. Solitude is good. And we have so much time for our friends and activities!!
