According to estimates, more than 35 million people are single in the USA? These people form 31% of the whole adult population and yet, 50% of these individuals are voluntarily enjoying their singlehood. This indicates they are not even looking to date, much less to settle down. Besides them, 17 million lovers refuse to tie the knot. The number of unmarried couples cohabiting has tripled in the past two decades. While these statistics might astonish some, for others it’s a part and parcel of their life.
# Perks of being singleIf you are averse to the idea of a romantic relationship, marriage is far off your radar. People dealing with trauma or a failed past relationship may not want to dive into a relationship. Also, many asexual people love being single. Whatever your reason may be, it’s wise to give yourself space and time to grow or heal before committing to another person. It also saves you from more complications in life that usually come with new relationships.
Nowadays, more Millenials are choosing to stay single, rather than falling into the marriage trap. This is because they are growing to be highly goal-oriented and seek career achievement more than marriage. Instead of forcing yourself down the aisle, you can pick your freedom of choice and seek other priorities.
# Financial benefits of not getting marriedLet’s delve into the math of it. Research suggests that an average wedding costs more than a whopping $30,000? A single-day expense leads straight to unending loan payments.
People who skip a wedding ceremony save up more, and can invest this money for long-term rewards. Besides the exorbitant costs of a single day, not getting married can also help your credit situation. With the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, you can take a loan without a partner. Moreover, you can help improve your or your partner’s credit score without having to marry them. Just add them as authorized users of your credit card. The finance part of life doesn’t require a white dress or vows on the altar.
# Consequences of marrying at the wrong ageWe all have aunts and mothers who married before 18 and had children in their early twenties. Now, they look down at you and scoff when you talk about not getting married. The average age of marriage now lies between 25 and 30, and quite rightly so!
The benefits of not getting married young are exceptional and abundant. The 20s are the time of your life when you are figuring yourself out. You need to focus on your aspirations, likes, dislikes, sexual awareness, and career goals. Also, it’s a time with the least amount of responsibilities and the most scope of fun. You are neither bound to school or college nor have home restrictions or a 10 pm curfew. It’s the perfect time to work hard and party harder.
# The adverse effects of a divorceAs much as we’d like to cling to the ‘a thousand years’ or ‘together forever’ dream, it’s not nearly possible. Most marriages come with an end date to it. We just don’t know it yet. Did you know, according to research, almost 50% of all marriages end up in a divorce or a separation? The stats rise to 60% if it’s your second marriage. The USA ranks 6th in the world when it comes to divorce rates. And divorces come at a hefty financial and emotional cost. The average cost of a divorce is more than $15,000. It could be worse if you have to pay alimony to your ex-spouse.
However, the emotional scars can’t be evaluated as a single value. People feel deep pain, confusion, and betrayal in relationships quite frequently. It can increase the chances of suicidal tendencies, PTSD, and other distressful psychological symptoms. The case worsens when there are children involved in a divorce. They are put through extra stress that can adversely affect their physical and mental well-being. Moreover, fighting over child custody or child-care expenses further leads to distress. While breakups can be as messy, if not more, and being single can be lonely as well, getting divorced is hell in itself. It’s advantageous to stay unmarried and avoid the nightmarish experience of a divorce.
# You can avoid the dramatic in-laws
Let’s be honest, no one wants to chat with Aunty Betty every holiday. Or bear snide remarks from the ever-so-stern mother-in-law. It’s just not everyone’s cup of tea. Dealing with passive-aggressive in-laws and extended families takes a toll on our mental well-being. They are usually threatened by your presence. They don’t respect your boundaries and find fault in all your actions. Often, these types of in-laws are controlling, demeaning, and highly self-centered and many mothers-in-law ruin marriages more often than you think. They may not mesh well with your family as well. Their over-reactive actions can ruin more than just a Thanksgiving dinner.
# A challenging decisionAre you more of an introvert or a private person? Do you dislike sharing your personal space? Do you have a disability that makes cohabiting a place with another person a nuisance for you? If your personal preferences clash with the idea of traditional marriage, then skip it altogether. A successful married life requires an equal amount of sacrifices and adjustments from the couple. Thus, you have to be 100% willing and excited about this idea before tying the knot.