It’s been a few years since your divorce, and maybe you’ve been on dates, had a few relationships, or perhaps you’ve stayed focused on your journey. Either way, here you are—still single. And while the world might expect you to be on the hunt for a new partner or to settle down again, you’re not convinced. And that’s okay.
The truth is, being single after years of divorce is not a sign of failure or something that needs to be "fixed." It’s an opportunity to live on your terms and wait for the right person if and when they come along. Here’s why you should never settle for less than you deserve, even if you’ve been single for a long time.
1. You’ve Come Too Far to Settle Now
Post-divorce, you’ve likely spent a lot of time healing, rediscovering yourself, and building a new life. You’ve navigated the emotional rollercoaster, learned what you want, and, more importantly, what you don’t want in a partner. After all that growth, settling for someone who doesn’t add value to your life would be a disservice to yourself. You’ve come too far to go back to anything less than fulfilling.
2. Your Happiness Is Not Dependent on a Relationship
One of the most empowering lessons from years of being single is that your happiness is not tied to having a partner. You’ve built a life you love, with or without a significant other. Settling for a relationship out of societal pressure or loneliness can disrupt the peace and joy you’ve worked so hard to cultivate. True happiness comes from within, and a partner should complement that—not be the source of it.
3. It’s Better to Be Single Than to Be in the Wrong Relationship
Many enter relationships because they fear being alone or feel that time is running out. But being single is infinitely better than being stuck in a relationship without joy or fulfillment. Settling for a partner who isn’t aligned with your values, goals, or emotional needs can leave you feeling lonelier than being single ever would. Don’t sacrifice your peace for companionship.
4. You Know What You Want—and What You Don’t
By now, you’ve had enough time to reflect on what truly matters to you in a partner. You know the non-negotiables, the red flags, and the qualities you need in a healthy, lasting relationship. Settling for less just because you feel pressure to be in a relationship isn’t worth it. Trust that your clarity on what you want will lead you to the right person when the time is right.
5. Quality Over Quantity Matters
In relationships, it’s always about quality over quantity. You could be with someone for years and not have a meaningful connection, or you could be single for a long time and then meet someone who truly understands and complements you. Don’t rush or settle for a “good enough” relationship to avoid being alone. Wait for the person who makes you feel alive, seen, and supported. The right connection is worth the wait.
6. You Are Enough, Just As You Are
Society often conveys that being single means something is missing from your life, especially for a long time. But the truth is, you are complete just as you are. You don’t need a partner to validate your worth, and you certainly don’t need to settle to fit society’s expectations. Your journey is yours, and there’s no timeline or rulebook you have to follow. Celebrate your independence and the rich, whole life you’ve created on your terms.
7. Settling Will Only Lead to Regret
The consequences of settling often reveal themselves over time. You may find yourself unhappy, feeling trapped, or questioning why you compromised on what you truly wanted. Relationships are hard work, even when suitable, so imagine how difficult it would be if the foundation weren’t solid. Save yourself from the regret of settling by staying true to your standards and waiting for a relationship that genuinely aligns with who you are.
8. Love Should Elevate, Not Weigh You Down
A healthy, loving relationship should elevate you—it should add joy, support, and a sense of partnership to your life. If a relationship feels like a compromise, an obligation, or a burden, it’s not the one for you. Don’t settle for something that drains your energy or diminishes your sense of self. Love should lift you higher, not weigh you down.
Don’t Settle—You Deserve More
Being single for years after divorce doesn’t mean you’ve “missed out” or that you need to settle for the next available person. It means you’ve had time to learn, grow, and build a life that reflects your true self. And because of that, you know your worth. Don’t compromise that by settling for someone who doesn’t meet your standards or align with your goals.
Remember, you are worthy of a deep, fulfilling, and true love. It’s okay to be patient, to stay single, and to continue investing in yourself. You'll know when the right person comes along, and it will be worth every moment of the wait. Until then, live your life fully, love yourself deeply, and never settle for anything less than you deserve.
Again, we have heard of people filling time with hook-ups, but when it comes to the real thing—we beg you—DO NOT SETTLE!!