But I don't understand people that don't think being single is ok.
That it's negative. Even young 24 years olds in Long term relationships. I don't get why being single is never going to be an option for them.
We're socially conditioned into seeing being single as a temporary state. It’s what you are when you’re waiting for the one - or, if the one you thought was the one turns out not to be, it’s a state you’re in while you lick your wounds until you’re ready to get back on the horse. It’s socially acceptable to be single if you’re recovering from a break-up, but leave it too long and people will be telling you it’s time to get back out there.
The idea of it being a long-term status by choice is mind-boggling to some. Tell some people you’re single and staying that way and at best you’ll get “Awwh, you never know; the right one could come along any moment” or similar; at worst, you’ll be told not to “give up” or “write yourself off”, or get the well-meaning but patronising and depressing reassurance that you’re not too ugly/fat/boring to find someone.
I always thought it would be great if there were three main categories when it comes to romance: in a relationship, single, looking. Single seems to have so many negative connotations; you end up with the sympathetic head tilts and well-meant advice even if you’re more than happy on your own. If single could be reserved for people who were happy that way, with people who want a relationship described as looking instead, no one would have to put up with sympathy they simply don’t need - and it would be way more positive for people who do want to be with someone to say “Yes, this is what I want and I’m actively trying to make it happen”.