Happily Single

Some Singaporean youths are thankful for being single.

What are the perks of being single?

More freedom, more time, more money.

That’s what many respondents who took part in a survey by The UrbanWire said. Conducted from Jan 31 to Feb 2, the survey found that 91 per cent of the 183 respondents are comfortable with being single.

“Being single is definitely healthier for my bank account,” said Sabrina Ang, 20. “It also means I have more time to find out more about myself.”

The polytechnic student has never been in a relationship. She also said that since she’s still studying, finding a partner is not her top priority.

Sabrina is part of a large group of young Singaporeans who prefer to put romance on the back burner. According to figures from the Department of Statistics, the number of singles in Singapore has soared across all age groups. The number of 35-year-olds and above – who have never married – has also risen by almost 25 per cent from 2004 to 2014.

While Sabrina’s happy being single, she said she’s not immune to the pressure of fitting in. Being in a relationship, to many, is part of fitting in.

Joel Wong, 19, also felt the same way. The pressure grows especially when friends around him seem to be in happy relationships.

“They don’t make me feel like being single is wrong,” Joel said. “Sometimes I just wonder if I could be happy with someone, and that makes me think if being in a relationship would make my life more fulfilling.”

Both Sabrina and Joel feel that it isn’t that hard to find a partner in Singapore. The rise of social media and dating applications such as Instagram and Tinder has made everyone more connected.

But the frequent “public display of affection” between young lovebirds on social media can leave singles feeling stressed and overwhelmed – especially as Valentine’s Day is approaching.

Joel said he’s learnt not to make a big deal out of these special occasions.

“I think it’s commercialized and just an overrated way of celebrating and flaunting your ‘oh-so-perfect’ relationship,” he said.

Sabrina also wouldn’t allow self-pity to creep into her head.

“Valentine’s Day is about celebrating love. I might be single, but I have lots of love in my life from my family and friends,” said Sabrina, who looks set to have a busy time celebrating with her loved ones come Feb 14.