Music, movies, and conversations often suggest that having a life partner is better than being single, with science supporting the health and other benefits. However, is being single just about waiting for the right person, or can it be a fulfilling, lasting lifestyle choice? Is it time for a new narrative?

If there's one thing we've picked up in recent times, it's that we can successfully rethink big, long-standing beliefs and perspectives. Take work. The meaning of work, the daily grind, the rat race, 'the more we work the more successful we are,' the 5-day week in the workplace? All of that's definitely evolving and work is changing.

Many of us in the Western world view older people as vulnerable (and a bit comical) and expect our own decline of mind and body to begin as early as middle age, as if it were inevitable. But could these expectations—especially when reinforced by societal norms—actually influence the outcome?