I’m 36 and never dating again because I can’t afford a partner or a family. I prefer my drama-free, single life.

The author, not pictured, wants to remain single.

I’m at the stage in life where many of my friends are settling down and starting families.

First, it was the wedding phase. Every weekend seemed packed with another friend or cousin tying the knot. Now, it’s all about babies; everyone seems to be welcoming their first child. Seeing all my 30-something friends finding love and building beautiful families is heartwarming. I just have no interest in joining them.

I’ve decided to remain single and not pursue a romantic relationship or a family.

Some people find it odd that I consciously choose to stay single. Society pushes the idea that we should all desire relationships and families, but I am not interested in any of that. Here’s why.

I already really love my life

I enjoy a peaceful life. I engage in activities that keep me healthy, I get good sleep, and I live in a lovely little house. I work for myself and avoid the stress of demanding jobs.

I often see my friends who are married and have children struggling with all the pressures — economically, emotionally, and physically. I’m OK without all of that.

I love being by myself

The main reason I’m not interested in having a partner is that I genuinely love spending time alone.

Many people assume that being alone equals loneliness, but that’s not the case for me. I have plenty of friends and can connect with people whenever I want. I simply find my alone time incredibly restful and fulfilling.

I love not having to discuss everything

I’ve been in relationships before, and while they were lovely, the constant need to discuss and get approval for everything — from major life decisions to small everyday errands — always seemed overwhelming.

As a single person, I cherish the peace and clarity of making decisions without consulting anyone else. It’s liberating.

I hate the drama

Some people are OK with the emotional rollercoaster of relationships — arguments, tiffs, and all that.

Many say disagreements are normal in relationships, but I genuinely hate arguments and confrontations. They affect me deeply.

I prefer a calm, drama-free life. I think it’s OK to want that. And I get exactly that if I remain single.

I love the family I already have

I have a wonderful family that I enjoy spending time with. Investing in the family I already have feels incredibly rewarding to me.

As my parents age, I want to be there to support them. I feel like having my own family would divert my attention from this important role.

I’m also an uncle and a godparent, and I love being involved in the lives of the little ones. And that’s enough for me.

I can’t afford a relationship or family

Let’s be honest: Marriage and raising kids are probably the most expensive things most people do.

Weddings often cost thousands of dollars, and as someone on a low income, such an expense is simply out of reach. Raising a family is even more costly.

With rising living costs, I need to focus on supporting myself before even considering starting a family.

I have a great sex life

Not dating doesn’t mean I lack intimacy or connection. I’m well-connected with the polyamorous community and can explore different types of relationships that fit my needs.

Modern apps and networks make it easy to find and connect with a variety of people without adhering to traditional dating conventions. I just make sure to communicate that I do not want to date or build a romantic relationship.

I like to wait and see

I find that traditional dating often imposes expectations that can limit the wonderful opportunities available to me.

I enjoy living in the moment and seeing what comes my way. I appreciate the many possibilities for love and connection that life offers.

I truly love myself and embrace all of life’s possibilities, so I’m incredibly happy with where I am right now and wouldn’t change it for the world.