Relationship problems - Would I be happier single? A psychologist gives answers
Relationships require a lot of work and care. Sometimes one might not just need to close one eye and it may be good that once in a while the partner becomes clingy to the point where one wonders if they would be happier being Single. But how does one find out which life situation suits them best?
The American psychologist Mark Travers delved into this question in the "Forbes" Magazine. He emphasizes at the outset that every relationship is unique. Then he describes three cornerstones that can provide guidance in the question: "Should I split up and be happier as a Single?"
The Happiness in a Relationship"A happy relationship will make you happier than Single life, but a bad relationship can make you much unhappier than Single life." In other words: Relationships can make you happier, but only the good ones, according to the psychologist. Although Travers cites several studies that people in a relationship are only slightly happier on average than Singles, that happiness levels in a relationship drop to the level before the relationship after some time, and that happier people are more likely to enter a relationship, his conclusion is: You must assess your individual situation – weigh the advantages of your current relationship against the advantages of Single life and consider both short-term and long-term perspectives.
No matter if Single or in a relationship, one often longs for what one does not have
It's not all that glitters is gold
The psychologist gives a poignant advice: The regret will be a part of every decision. If you decide to stay in your current relationship, you might later regret not having explored other paths. But if you choose separation, you might wonder what could have been and if better times with your partner could have come back. It is important to thoroughly consider: Which regret will hurt more in the long run?
Trapped in the PastThe third point to consider is whether the doubts about the relationship might be due to the fact that one lives too much in the past. For instance, do you often dwell in nostalgic thoughts about how nice and carefree Single life was before the relationship? The psychologist warns against romanticizing the past, as that time will never come back.
In some instances, the clinginess of a partner may lead an individual to question if they would be happier being Single, despite the potential happiness a relationship can bring. According to Mark Travers, one must assess the advantages of being Single versus staying in the relationship, considering both short-term and long-term implications. Even after contemplating, one may still grapple with the regret of their decision, whether to stay or leave.
