SophieJ Life Experiences

If you’re in your early thirties or nearing that age, can you share whether your relatives are unusually obsessed with your love life? Because let me tell you, the moment I step into any gatherings, after someone comments on my fluctuating weight (as if that’s their business), the very next question is: “So… are you seeing anyone?”

I’ve reached a point where I no longer want to accept invitations. It feels like every social interaction turns into an interrogation about my relationship status. I could easily vent my frustrations, but the truth is, I just don’t have the energy. Why is my personal choice to be single such a collective concern?

And here’s another point: Is this weird obsession reserved for women, or do men in their thirties also experience pressure to “settle down”? It certainly feels as though the weight of this societal expectation falls primarily on women.

But let’s address the obvious question: What’s the actual problem? Who are single people hurting by choosing to prioritize themselves over a relationship that might not serve them? Has it occurred to anyone that some of us are genuinely happy with our current lives and have no desire to manage another person’s emotional well-being? Relationships can be excellent, but they aren’t a mandatory rite of passage to prove you’re an adult.

Why do so many people assume everyone wants the same life path? Shouldn’t the goal be happiness, whether that means being single, in a couple, married, divorced, or anything in between? Why are we still stuck in outdated narratives that measure worth or success based on relationship status?

And don’t even get me started on the unsolicited advice that always comes from people with the best “intentions.” Tips on how to get a partner, keep them, read their minds, or twist yourself into a pretzel to meet someone else’s expectations—it’s exhausting. I’m protecting my peace by avoiding these conversations altogether.

So here’s to everyone in their thirties who is done entertaining the peanut gallery’s questions about their love lives. May we remember that our choices are valid, our happiness is not up for debate, and the only person who needs to be satisfied with how we live is ourselves.

What about you? Are your relatives weirdly obsessed with your love life, too? Let’s talk.