Jace Lamonica
Men and women approach single life differently. A recent study at the University of Toronto shows women may be better at it. They are embracing independence on their terms and living a more satisfying life without a spouse. These 10 findings from the study reveal how they manage solo life with more confidence and purpose, especially in midlife and beyond. The conclusions tell a surprisingly clear story.
Women Report Higher Life Satisfaction When Single
In midlife, many women find contentment outside relationships. They aren’t rushing to couple up and often describe singlehood as a relaxing experience. Freedom, fewer emotional demands, and more self-time contribute. That shift suggests happiness no longer hinges on having a partner.
Single Women Have Stronger Social Networks
Friendships among women tend to be emotionally rich and biologically soothing. Oxytocin released during bonding reduces feelings of isolation. Over 50, many women lead support circles or social groups. Maybe that’s why they feel less alone despite living solo.
Women Benefit More From Emotional Independence
Self-reflection plays a bigger role in women’s mental wellness. Journaling, counseling, and emotional processing are more common among them. As a result, single women often report fewer depressive episodes than single men. Men may just not be wired or socialized to cope the same way.
Single Women Enjoy More Freedom With Finances
Autonomy extends to the bank account. Many women past 45 handle their budgets, sidestepping joint debt risks. Instead of pooling resources, they invest in travel or wellness, among other things. That freedom allows them to prioritize goals over relationships.
Women Excel In Purpose-Driven Lifestyles
For many single women, passion becomes a compass. Whether volunteering or launching mission-based careers, fulfillment often comes from purpose, not partnership. The result? A lifestyle that answers to meaning rather than expectation.
Health Outcomes Are Often Better For Single Women
Medical independence works in women’s favor. They schedule their checkups, adhere to treatments, and show lower cortisol levels. Men, in contrast, often lean on spouses for care. So, it turns out that taking care of yourself without depending on others can ultimately lead to better health.
Women Experience Less Pressure To Remarry
After divorce or widowhood, few women re-enter marriage. Cultural shifts have reshaped expectations, and independence no longer carries stigma. Media increasingly promote self-reliant lifestyles. That’s why, the “need” to remarry feels increasingly outdated today.
Single Women Are More Likely To Cultivate Hobbies
Creative expression, movement, and learning fill the calendar for many solo women. They pursue interests like painting, yoga, or gardening more consistently. Stress levels drop, while dopamine rises. They’re fueling well-being and not just time.
Women Age Alone With Greater Confidence
Aging solo doesn’t scare most women—it empowers them. They proactively shape their futures, from end-of-life decisions to home setups that fit their lifestyle. With fewer regrets and more self-trust, aging becomes less about loneliness and more about living on their own terms, right to the finish line.
Single Women Are Redefining Legacy
Legacy isn’t just about passing on wealth or a family name. Many single women are redefining it through mentorship, social impact, or creative contributions. By funding causes, teaching skills, or building community programs, they’re proving you don’t need a spouse or children to leave a meaningful mark on the world.
