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Single On Purpose

Single On Purpose

Redefine Everything. Find Yourself First.
by John Kim 2021 256 pages
3.96
6k+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. Redefine Singlehood: It's About Self-Connection, Not Relationship Status

Singlehood isn't just about being single. Singlehood is about being a whole person. Even when you're in a relationship.

Shift your perspective. Singlehood is not a waiting period between relationships, but an opportunity for self-discovery and growth. It's about developing a strong connection with yourself, understanding your needs, desires, and values. This self-connection is crucial whether you're single or in a relationship.

Embrace self-reliance. Use this time to:

  • Develop new skills and interests
  • Set and achieve personal goals
  • Learn to enjoy your own company
  • Build emotional resilience

Remember, a thriving relationship is one where two whole people come together, not two halves seeking completion. By focusing on self-connection, you're preparing yourself for healthier future relationships or enhancing your current one.

2. Overcome Loneliness by Accepting and Focusing on Personal Growth

Radical acceptance is the practice of accepting life on life's terms and not resisting what you cannot change.

Acknowledge your feelings. Loneliness is a real and valid emotion, especially when single. However, it's crucial to distinguish between feeling lonely and believing you are inherently lonely or unlovable.

Embrace radical acceptance. This means:

  • Accepting your current relationship status without judgment
  • Recognizing that being single doesn't define your worth
  • Understanding that loneliness is temporary and changeable

Focus on personal growth. Use this time to:

  • Explore new passions and interests
  • Work on self-improvement
  • Build a fulfilling life independent of relationship status

By accepting your current situation and channeling your energy into personal development, you create a rich, meaningful life that attracts like-minded individuals and prepares you for healthy future relationships.

3. Build a Better Relationship with Your Body, Mind, and Soul

The Richest Soil for Growth Is Cultivated When You're Single

Nurture your body. Treat your body as a valuable asset, not just a tool for aesthetics. This involves:

  • Regular exercise that you enjoy
  • Balanced nutrition
  • Adequate rest and self-care

Cultivate your mind. Develop a healthier relationship with your thoughts:

  • Practice mindfulness and self-awareness
  • Challenge negative thought patterns
  • Engage in continuous learning and personal development

Feed your soul. Connect with your deeper self:

  • Explore spirituality or personal philosophy
  • Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment
  • Practice gratitude and self-compassion

By nurturing these three aspects of yourself, you create a strong foundation for personal growth and happiness, regardless of your relationship status.

4. Cultivate Meaningful Friendships to Enhance Self-Connection

We are tribal creatures. We're not meant to do life alone.

Prioritize friendships. Strong friendships are crucial for emotional well-being and self-discovery. They provide:

  • Emotional support and understanding
  • Opportunities for shared experiences and growth
  • Different perspectives and insights

Actively build your social circle:

  • Join communities based on shared interests
  • Attend social events and be open to new connections
  • Nurture existing friendships through regular communication and shared activities

Be intentional about friendships. Choose friends who:

  • Support your growth and authenticity
  • Share your values and aspirations
  • Encourage your connection to self

Remember, meaningful friendships complement romantic relationships, providing a well-rounded support system and enhancing your overall life satisfaction.

5. Let Go of Past Relationships to Create Space for New Experiences

Closure happens right after you accept that letting go and moving on is more important than projecting a fantasy of how the situation could have been.

Practice acceptance. Acknowledge that the relationship has ended and that holding onto it prevents personal growth and new experiences.

Take ownership of your part. Reflect on the relationship objectively:

  • Identify your role in its dynamics
  • Learn from mistakes and patterns
  • Avoid blaming or victimizing yourself

Create new experiences. Use this time to:

  • Explore new interests and hobbies
  • Travel or experience different cultures
  • Meet new people and expand your social circle

By letting go of past relationships, you free yourself to create new, potentially more fulfilling experiences and relationships aligned with your current self.

6. Explore Your Sexuality Responsibly to Discover Yourself

Exploring your sexuality is in fact part of working on yourself.

Embrace sexual exploration. Understanding your sexuality is crucial for self-discovery and future relationships. This can involve:

  • Exploring your desires and boundaries
  • Experimenting with different types of intimacy
  • Learning about sexual health and communication

Practice responsible exploration:

  • Prioritize safety and consent
  • Be honest about your intentions with partners
  • Reflect on your experiences and feelings

Challenge societal norms. Recognize that sexuality is diverse and personal:

  • Let go of judgmental labels
  • Explore what feels authentic to you
  • Understand that sexual needs and preferences can change over time

Remember, sexual exploration is about self-discovery, not just physical pleasure. It can lead to greater self-awareness and more fulfilling future relationships.

7. Create New Definitions of Love to Break Old Patterns

Love is not about the old. Love is about the new.

Redefine love. Challenge your existing beliefs about love and relationships:

  • Question where your current definitions come from
  • Explore what a healthy, fulfilling relationship means to you
  • Be open to new experiences that challenge your old patterns

Create new love experiences:

  • Practice vulnerability and open communication
  • Engage in activities that foster deeper connection
  • Be present and mindful in your interactions

Break old patterns:

  • Identify recurring issues in past relationships
  • Work on personal growth to avoid repeating mistakes
  • Be open to different types of people and relationships

By creating new definitions of love, you open yourself to healthier, more fulfilling relationships that align with your authentic self.

8. Find Closure Within Yourself, Not from Others

"Closure" requires nothing from the other person involved. It does not require an answer, an apology, or an explanation.

Shift your perspective on closure. Understand that true closure comes from within, not from external sources:

  • Accept that you may never get all the answers you want
  • Recognize that your healing isn't dependent on others' actions or words

Practice self-reflection:

  • Identify what you're truly seeking (e.g., validation, understanding)
  • Explore how you can provide this for yourself
  • Learn from the experience and use it for personal growth

Take action for self-closure:

  • Write a letter to yourself or the other person (without sending it)
  • Engage in a symbolic ritual of letting go
  • Focus on creating a fulfilling present and future

Remember, closure is a process, not a single event. By finding closure within yourself, you regain power over your healing and growth.

9. Inject Joy, Engagement, and Meaning into Your Life

Happy is a state we can produce today.

Cultivate meaning. Identify and invest in what truly matters to you:

  • Define your personal values and priorities
  • Engage in activities aligned with your purpose
  • Build relationships that support your growth and values

Seek joy actively. Train yourself to find and create joy in everyday life:

  • Practice gratitude for small pleasures
  • Engage in activities that bring you genuine happiness
  • Cultivate a positive mindset through mindfulness and self-reflection

Engage fully in life. Be an active participant in your own experiences:

  • Be present in your interactions and activities
  • Take risks and step out of your comfort zone
  • Express yourself authentically in all areas of life

By focusing on these three elements - meaning, joy, and engagement - you create a rich, fulfilling life regardless of your relationship status.

10. Practice Mindfulness to Stop Living in Time Machines

We have left our lives because our heads have taken us hostage.

Understand time machines. Recognize when you're dwelling on the past or obsessing about the future:

  • Notice thoughts that pull you away from the present
  • Observe how these thoughts affect your emotions and behaviors

Practice mindfulness techniques:

  • Engage in regular meditation or breathing exercises
  • Use grounding techniques to bring yourself back to the present
  • Practice mindful observation of your thoughts without judgment

Cultivate present-moment awareness:

  • Focus on your senses in daily activities
  • Engage fully in conversations and experiences
  • Regularly check in with your current thoughts and feelings

By practicing mindfulness, you free yourself from the anxiety of past regrets and future worries, allowing you to fully engage with and enjoy your present life.

Last updated:

FAQ

What's "Single On Purpose" by John Kim about?

  • Focus on Self-Relationship: The book emphasizes building a strong relationship with oneself before seeking or maintaining relationships with others.
  • Redefining Singlehood: It challenges the societal norms that equate being single with being incomplete or defective, promoting singlehood as a time for personal growth.
  • Personal Journey: John Kim shares his personal experiences and struggles with relationships, loneliness, and self-discovery.
  • Practical Advice: The book offers practical advice and exercises to help readers connect with themselves and redefine their lives.

Why should I read "Single On Purpose"?

  • Self-Discovery: It provides insights into understanding and connecting with oneself, which is crucial for personal growth and happiness.
  • Empowerment: The book empowers readers to embrace singlehood as a valuable phase of life rather than a temporary state to escape from.
  • Relatable Stories: John Kim shares relatable personal stories and client experiences that illustrate common struggles and solutions.
  • Actionable Steps: It offers actionable steps and exercises to help readers build a healthier relationship with themselves.

What are the key takeaways of "Single On Purpose"?

  • Self-Relationship is Key: Building a strong relationship with oneself is essential for personal happiness and healthy relationships with others.
  • Redefine Singlehood: Being single is not a flaw but an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
  • Acceptance and Ownership: Accepting past relationships and taking ownership of one's role in them is crucial for moving forward.
  • New Experiences: Embracing new experiences and redefining personal beliefs can lead to personal growth and a better understanding of oneself.

How does John Kim suggest dealing with loneliness in "Single On Purpose"?

  • Acknowledge Loneliness: Recognize that loneliness is a natural feeling and not an indication of personal failure.
  • Differentiate Feelings: Understand the difference between feeling lonely and being lonely as an identity.
  • Radical Acceptance: Practice radical acceptance of singlehood and the possibility of not finding a partner, which can lead to freedom and personal growth.
  • Focus on Self: Use the time alone to explore personal interests, build a life that stands on its own, and develop a deeper relationship with oneself.

What is the "Single On Purpose" method for building a better relationship with oneself?

  • Self-Care as a Priority: Treat self-care as a first date with oneself, focusing on activities that connect you to your body, mind, and soul.
  • Daily Practices: Incorporate daily practices that promote self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-discipline.
  • Explore and Engage: Engage in activities that bring joy, meaning, and engagement to your life, fostering a deeper connection with yourself.
  • Challenge Old Beliefs: Continuously challenge and redefine old beliefs and blueprints that no longer serve you.

What does John Kim mean by "relationship residue" in "Single On Purpose"?

  • Past Impact: Relationship residue refers to the lingering effects of past relationships on one's current life and self-perception.
  • Acceptance and Letting Go: Accepting and processing past relationships is crucial for letting go and moving forward.
  • Ownership: Taking ownership of one's role in past relationships helps in learning and growing from those experiences.
  • New Definitions: Creating new definitions of love and relationships can help in overcoming past patterns and building healthier future relationships.

How does "Single On Purpose" redefine the concept of closure?

  • Internal Process: Closure is an internal process that does not require answers or apologies from others.
  • Acceptance: It involves accepting the end of a relationship and the feelings associated with it.
  • Self-Exploration: Closure is achieved through self-exploration and understanding the deeper reasons behind one's need for closure.
  • Ongoing Journey: It is a journey rather than a destination, with feelings that may come and go over time.

What are some of the best quotes from "Single On Purpose" and what do they mean?

  • "The Richest Soil for Growth Is Cultivated When You’re Single": This quote emphasizes that singlehood is a fertile time for personal growth and self-discovery.
  • "Radical acceptance is about saying yes to life, just as it is": It highlights the importance of accepting life and oneself as they are, without resistance.
  • "Love and relationships are only one part of your life, not your entire life": This quote reminds readers that there are many fulfilling aspects of life beyond romantic relationships.
  • "You’re not going to find someone by reading this book. But I promise that you’ll be a better person if and when you do": It underscores the book's focus on self-improvement rather than finding a partner.

How does John Kim address the concept of self-worth in "Single On Purpose"?

  • Worth is Built: Self-worth is not an inherent belief but something that is built through experiences and self-discovery.
  • New Experiences: Giving oneself new experiences can shift beliefs and help build self-worth.
  • Daily Practice: Building self-worth requires a daily practice of self-care, self-compassion, and self-discipline.
  • Challenge Negative Beliefs: Continuously challenge and change negative beliefs about oneself to foster a sense of worth.

What role do friendships play in "Single On Purpose"?

  • Essential for Growth: Friendships are essential for personal growth and building a strong sense of self.
  • Support System: Friends provide support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging that is crucial for well-being.
  • Honest Connections: Building honest connections with friends helps in connecting more deeply with oneself.
  • Balance in Life: Friendships offer a balance to romantic relationships and contribute to a fulfilling life.

How does "Single On Purpose" suggest redefining personal blueprints?

  • Identify Old Blueprints: Recognize and identify old blueprints and definitions that no longer serve you.
  • Create New Definitions: Create new definitions of love, success, happiness, and other aspects of life that align with your current truth.
  • Live Authentically: Live a life that is honest to you, rather than tracing someone else's blueprint.
  • Continuous Evolution: Continuously evolve and redefine your blueprints as you grow and change.

What is the significance of the "Single On Purpose Mixtape" in the book?

  • Personal Soundtrack: The mixtape serves as a personal soundtrack for the singlehood journey, providing emotional support and inspiration.
  • Connection to Self: Music is used as a tool to connect with oneself and evoke emotions that aid in self-discovery.
  • Reflective Moments: The songs chosen reflect different moments and feelings experienced during the author's journey.
  • Encouragement: It encourages readers to create their own mixtape as a form of self-expression and connection.

Review Summary

3.96 out of 5
Average of 6k+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

Single On Purpose receives mixed reviews. Some readers find it insightful and helpful for self-discovery, praising Kim's candid approach and practical advice on building a relationship with oneself. Others criticize it for promoting unhealthy behaviors and lacking depth. Many appreciate the focus on personal growth and self-care, while some feel it doesn't fully address the joys of being single. The book's casual tone and short chapters are welcomed by some but seen as shallow by others. Overall, readers' responses vary widely based on their personal situations and expectations.

Your rating:

About the Author

John Kim LMFT, known as "The Angry Therapist," pioneered online life coaching after his own divorce-induced transformation. He gained a following by sharing authentic insights on social media, breaking traditional therapist norms through transparency. Kim's unconventional approach includes meeting clients in informal settings like coffee shops and hiking trails. He founded JRNI, a coaching company focused on innovative methods of helping people. Kim's background in therapy and personal experiences inform his work, which aims to change how people approach personal growth and relationships. Based in Los Angeles, he continues to challenge traditional therapy methods and promote authentic self-discovery.

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