Dear Nicola, how can I deal with other people’s negative perceptions of single life?

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Hi Nicola!

Any tips for dealing with other people’s negative perceptions of single life, and about not having reached life milestones - such as a mortgage, marriage and children? I suppose I’m realising that perhaps I’m not so traditional, or conventional, but feel like I am constantly having to justify myself and my life decisions, or even worse be pitied that I am not at ‘that stage’ yet.

It doesn’t bother me that I haven’t hit these so-called life milestones - but sometimes I don’t know how to react to other people’s awkwardness/shaming.

Would love to hear your thoughts!

Lizzie