As the pressures of modern dating intensify, a growing number of people are opting to pause their search for a romantic partner. In a recent article for The Atlantic, Faith Hill explores how individuals are redefining happiness and success without a relationship at its center.
As the challenges of modern dating grow more demanding, many individuals are choosing to take a break from seeking romantic relationships. Faith Hill, in her article for The Atlantic explores this theme by giving examples. She shares stories of people like Cameron Chapman, a 40-year-old from rural New England, who decided to quit using dating apps after a series of frustrating experiences. Dating apps have taken over today’s dating culture. Finding someone sometimes requires swiping through thousands of options, sending messages, setting up dates—and then doing it all over again.
Although she still wants a relationship, Chapman has found more joy in focusing on personal interests like hiking and dance classes. Others have redirected their energy into new careers, deepened friendships, or even taken on the adventure of raising children on their own.
Hill also discusses the concept of “ambiguous loss,” where the absence of a long-envisioned partner can feel like mourning a future that may never happen. This lingering hope leaves many singles in a painful limbo, unsure whether to keep looking or move on. Lewis believes that societal expectations around finding a partner can make being single feel like an incomplete life, even though that’s far from true.
For those who have stopped actively dating, the choice has brought a newfound sense of freedom and self-discovery. Free from the stress and letdowns of the dating world, they’re investing more time in hobbies, personal growth, and nurturing relationships with family and friends. As Hill points out, this decision isn’t about giving up on love, but rather embracing life in the present.
Hill’s article challenges the conventional idea that life is on hold until you find a partner, suggesting instead that singlehood can be a fulfilling chapter in itself.
You can read the full article on The Atlantic.