Whether you're trying to rationalize it to yourself or explain to other people, sometimes you just need a well-informed reason why you just don't want to get married. Not everyone wants – or needs – to tie the knot to live a fulfilled, happy life. A lot of people marry for the wrong reasons, but not very many people stay single for the right reasons. Here are a few thoughts on lifelong singlehood. Not being married doesn't mean a lifetime of loneliness. You never have to be alone if you don't want to, married or not. Being unmarried is not synonymous with being alone. Extended family, friends and kids (if you have them – and you can without marrying!) can serve as a support system that is just as good as a spouse. The feeling of being loved can come from so many other places. Connecting with other people doesn't have to happen romantically, though you certainly can open yourself up to the possibility.
It's empowering to form your identity independent of a spouse –  whether that means reaching career goals, becoming a single parent, volunteering for social causes or whatever it is that enriches your life and makes you "you." If you do choose to partner up, the advantages of not getting married are plentiful. When relationships hit rocky patches – as they all do sometimes – it's reassuring to know that there isn't a messy divorce waiting down the line, should it come to that. And the desire to work hard and stay together simply because you want to is meaningful. There's nothing keeping you from leaving, but recognizing the reasons to stay may be easier. Finally, there's always the opportunity for marriage. You can get married whenever you want, to whomever you want. Leave yourself open to the possibilities of love, and things will work out for the best