What does National Singles Day really mean? Is it just another commercial holiday or a chance to celebrate your individuality? How can you make the most of this day dedicated to self-care and independence? What activities will help you embrace singlehood and personal growth?
National Singles Day, observed on September 27, is an event that champions single life and encourages individuals to embrace their personal growth, independence, and well-being. Unlike other holidays that might focus on relationships or romantic connections, National Singles Day invites people to celebrate their individuality, their unique journeys, and their self-worth. This holiday encourages people to take a step back, reflect on themselves, and appreciate where they are in life, whether or not they’re in a relationship.
There is a prevailing thought tied to National Singles Day that suggests: “A new love finds you when you least expect it.” This sentiment implies that when you stop desperately searching for a relationship and start focusing on your own growth, love will come to you when the time is right. The idea is that you have to be content with your life as a single person, fostering a sense of comfort and confidence in your own skin. It’s only when you are truly comfortable being alone that you become the kind of person who attracts others effortlessly.
But National Singles Day is not only about being at peace with your single status—it’s also a day to reflect on where you are in your journey, appreciate the growth you’ve experienced, and think about where you want to go next. While the idea of being comfortable alone is often emphasized, that doesn’t mean that those who are looking for love shouldn’t take action. Single adults in the United States are growing in numbers, and for many, National Singles Day might serve as a reminder that the dating world is filled with possibilities.
The Growing Popularity of Singlehood
According to U.S. Census Bureau statistics, the number of single adults in the country continues to rise at an exponential rate. This increase has led to a shift in cultural perceptions about being single. While some people might see being single as a temporary phase or a status to be corrected, the reality is that many Americans are single by choice or because of circumstances such as divorce or the death of a partner. This societal shift has also brought new opportunities for singles, from dating apps to new travel options catering specifically to people traveling alone.
Despite the growing number of single individuals, the pressure to find love or be in a relationship still exists for many people. This pressure is often perpetuated by societal norms that favor couples and romantic relationships. National Singles Day, however, encourages individuals to resist that pressure, instead emphasizing the importance of focusing on yourself, your passions, and your goals.
The History of National Singles Day
National Singles Day did not start as a commercialized holiday, but rather as an initiative to celebrate single life and recognize singles for their contributions to society. The concept of National Singles Week was first introduced by the Buckeyes Council in Ohio during the 1980s. The Buckeyes Council wanted to celebrate single life and remind people of the many ways in which single individuals contribute to society, whether through work, creativity, or volunteering.
Although the holiday started in Ohio, its meaning spread far and wide, and now National Singles Day is celebrated by people across the United States. The idea is to create a space where individuals can focus on themselves, their well-being, and their personal growth. It’s a day to appreciate being single and independent, rather than feeling pressure to be in a relationship.
National Singles Day Timeline
The celebration of singlehood has long roots in history, and National Singles Day acknowledges these historical milestones.
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1563: Queen Elizabeth I Shuts It Down
Queen Elizabeth I, one of the most famous single monarchs in history, faced considerable pressure from her court to marry. In response, she famously declared, “If I am to disclose to you what I should prefer… it is this: beggar-woman and single, far rather than queen and married!” Elizabeth’s decision to remain single became a symbol of empowerment for women who valued independence and freedom over marital obligations. -
1795: Beethoven’s Proposal Rejected
Composer Ludwig van Beethoven proposed to Magdalena Willman, but she rejected him, saying that he was “too ugly and half crazy.” Beethoven’s experience reflects how singlehood can be tied to both rejection and individual preferences, and shows that even a great genius like Beethoven struggled with matters of the heart. -
2014: Taylor Swift and Her Failed Relationships
In the modern age, the pressure to find love is often complicated by celebrity culture. Taylor Swift, a pop music icon, capitalized on her failed relationships and heartbreaks, turning them into hits. Her album “1989”, for instance, was a reflection on both the end of her relationship with Harry Styles and her transformation into a new era of independence. -
2018: Rihanna’s Single by Choice
Singer Rihanna made headlines when she publicly declared that she was single by choice. She explained, “Guys need attention… I’ll give it to my family, I’ll give it to my work – but I will not give it to a man right now.” Rihanna’s statement about not needing a man for validation resonated with many singles, and served as a reminder that singleness can be empowering.
National Singles Day FAQ
While National Singles Day encourages you to focus on yourself, many questions arise about how best to observe the holiday. Below are some frequently asked questions:
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Should I give gifts on National Singles Day?
While it’s not mandatory to give gifts, pampering gifts such as spa treatments, massages, or self-care products are commonly given on this day. National Singles Day is about celebrating yourself, so gifting yourself something that brings joy is in the spirit of the holiday. -
What if I’m invited to a singles mixer? Is that in the spirit of the holiday?
National Singles Day is about celebrating what feels right for you. If attending a singles mixer is something you’re genuinely interested in, go ahead. The idea is to do what makes you feel happy and fulfilled—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to observing the day. -
Isn’t this just another example of retail-sales driven hype?
Some may view National Singles Day as just another commercial holiday designed to increase consumer spending. However, the spirit of the holiday is about recognizing that you, as a single person, deserve attention, appreciation, and celebration. Whether you choose to indulge in retail therapy or not, the focus is on self-care and self-love.
National Singles Day Activities
There are several ways you can celebrate National Singles Day in a way that is true to yourself and your personal journey.
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Delete Your Ex’s Number (For Real)
A symbolic and practical activity for National Singles Day is to remove any remnants of past relationships. This might mean deleting an ex’s contact information or unfollowing them on social media. While it may seem drastic, it can be an empowering act that allows you to fully move forward. -
Hit the Club, Gym, or Farmers’ Market
National Singles Day is about building up your social interests and passions. Whether it’s visiting a local market, joining a fitness class, or attending a social event, expanding your interests increases your chances of meeting like-minded people. The idea is to develop your hobbies first, and meeting people will come naturally. -
Marry Yourself
For those who are feeling bold and want to take self-love to the extreme, why not consider a self-marriage ceremony? While not legally binding, this symbolic act of marrying yourself is an ultimate commitment to self-love and self-respect. It’s a unique way to mark National Singles Day.
The Growing Popularity of Being Single
One of the main reasons to celebrate National Singles Day is that being single is no longer seen as a temporary phase. For many, it is a deliberate choice, and businesses are beginning to recognize the growing market for singles. For instance, certain cruise lines now offer solo cabins without charging a supplement fee, and restaurants have become more sensitive to seating individuals, rather than relegating them to hidden corners.
Singles also face fewer stigmas today when it comes to raising children on their own. Increasingly, people are choosing adoption or assisted reproductive technologies, paving the way for single parents to raise children independently, a possibility that was once difficult to imagine.
Conclusion
National Singles Day is a celebration of independence, personal growth, and the empowerment that comes with being single. Whether you’re focused on self-care, reflecting on your life, or simply enjoying the freedom that comes with being single, this holiday offers a space for self-appreciation. Celebrate who you are, where you’ve been, and where you are going. Love yourself, and remember, the world is yours to conquer.
