While being in a relationship can be awesome, there is nothing wrong with choosing to be single, especially if you understand that being alone doesn’t equate to being lonely. In fact, more people are choosing to stay single for longer, many of whom are women.

A survey from the Pew Research Center of over 6,000 American adults that was conducted from July 5 to 17, 2022, found that 30% of participants stated they were not in a committed romantic relationship, not living with a partner, or married. Furthermore, a 2020 survey found that 47% of Black adults were more likely to be single than White (28%) or Hispanic (27%) adults.

So take this as a sign that you should embrace your singlehood. To help you kick off your hot girl summer, we tapped into Krish Marsh, PhD, author of The Love Jones Cohort: Single and Living Alone in the Black Middle Class, for some insight. “After reading this book, I hope people—especially Black women—will avoid getting into (or leave) marriages or partnerships that are unfulfilling, toxic, oppressive, or abusive simply because they do not want to hold the title of singlehood that is so often stigmatized in many social spaces and across various social institutions,” she said.

For her book, Marsh interviewed 62 people—43 women—ages 25 to 56. Below we have curated some of their tips for enjoying singlehood and some of our own tips to help you enjoy your hot girl summer.

Eat what you please

A typical conversation between couples centers on what to eat; however, two of the book’s interviewees, Nancy and Glenda, love the freedom their singledom allows them regarding food. “If I want to eat popcorn and have a glass of wine for dinner, then that’s what I do,” said Nancy. At the same time, Glenda will sometimes have donuts for dinner. In other words, embrace knowing that after a long day of work, if you want, you can have a bowl of cereal without guilt.

Book that trip

Solo travel has been gaining popularity, and why not? Since it allows you to create the trip of your dreams. Traveling alone can also help you to build your self-confidence because it helps you to understand what you are capable of. Plus, it can give you the space you need to be still and focus on exactly who you are and not the expectations of others.

Relax your body

Many of us are always on the go and miss the opportunity to treat ourselves to a mani, pedi, or massage. But a trip to the spa isn’t just an indulgence. As a 2018 study suggests, getting a massage can help reduce blood pressure.

Take a class

There is no time like the present to learn something you have always been interested in. So take a dance or cooking class, learn a language, or even sign up for golf or tennis lessons. You may find a hobby that brings you joy, keeps you active, and expands your social circle.

Date yourself

Yes, we know it can be intimidating to sit in a restaurant alone, but it is worth doing it at least once. Furthermore, make it enjoyable by picking somewhere you have always wanted to try and wear your favorite outfit, fragrance, and lipstick. If eating out isn't your thing, you can also check out an art exhibit, see a movie, head to your local coffee shop, or have a solo picnic in the park.

Embrace your friendships

Sometimes when you are in a relationship, you don't see your friends as often as you'd like. Marsh found that female participants "emphasized the high value they placed on friendships and the importance of these social networks in providing support for their single lifestyles." So alternate movie nights at each of your homes, break out the snacks, and enjoy hanging with your friends.

Prioritize your physical health

Taking care of yourself can show itself in many ways—including eating, sleeping well, and working out. "Engaging in exercise as a means of maintaining both physical and mental well-being was mentioned by several Black women," said Marsh. One participant stated that while being single, "I have more time to address my physical health . . . If I feel a little overworked or anxious about anything, then I go running. It's definitely a release." Another noted that being single not only gave her more time for self-care but also provided her with greater impetus: "I noticed when I was in relationships, I put on a lot of weight. Just got comfortable because I was with that person. Being single, I don't do it just to be marketable. I have more time for myself to figure out what's important to me. It's easier for me to stay in better health and shape."

Know your worth

Don't underestimate the value of self-affirmations; just ask Jenifer Lewis, who shared her now-viral morning ritual while appearing on Sherri, which includes looking in the mirror and complimenting herself. Since we are often our harshest critics, we can also be our greatest cheerleaders. Practice saying things such as "I am loved. I am worthy. I am whole, and I am peaceful."

Keep an open mind

In Shonda Rhimes' book Year of Yes, the Bridgerton executive producer talks about overcoming her fears by spending a year saying yes to things that she previously had said no to. During a TED talk, she shared, "Anything that made me nervous took me out of my comfort zone, I forced myself to say yes to. And a crazy thing happened: the very act of doing the thing that scared me undid the fear, made it not scary. My fear of public speaking, my social anxiety, poof, gone. It's amazing, the power of one word." Look at this time in your life as a chance to try new things.

Stay focused

It is pretty easy to compare yourself to others and where they are on their journey. However, though they may be in relationships, it is vital to your self-esteem to avoid looking at your life through the lens of someone else's. While things may seem fabulous on the outside, there is no guarantee that their life and relationship is the perfect romance you may imagine. Instead, focus on what your hopes and goals are. In doing so, you will be able to create the path that you want.