I have reached that point in life where most of my friends are getting married, having kids, and settling down. While I am happy for all of them if this is what they actually want, I can’t imagine ever doing this for myself. I have been in a long term relationship and understand why this makes people happy. There are certainly some advantages to sharing your life with someone special, but there are just some spirits out there that need to remain free. While I do appreciate the good times I spent with my ex, I know that a commitment like that is not something I am looking for now. For all of the other single ladies and gents out there who may be desperately seeking that special connection, here are some reasons why you may just want to stay single as long as you can.

Whatever money you make is all yours. No taking your significant other out to dinner or buying little gifts to show your appreciation. My grandfather, I am told, used to sing a song, “when I was single, my pockets would jingle.” I think he had a point there.

You can do whatever you want, whenever you want to. Yes, if you find the right person they usually have no problem with you keeping your own interests, but in every relationship there comes a time when you stop saying “I” and start saying “we.”

Admit it, you have at least one bad habit or quirky act that you like to hide from the world. Maybe you are gross and wear the same underwear two days in a row, maybe you like porn, maybe you like to dress your dog up for tea parties. You have something that you would have to hide from a significant other. Being single means no lies! Even worse than lying, you could share that secret with your partner and be judged. The only judgment that flies for the single person is his or her own judgement!

Cuddling is nice. You know what’s nicer? Having the whole bed to yourself! I guess this perk doesn’t apply though if you have a dog or cat.

It may be true, there could be one person meant for you out there. Your soul mate may exist, but that isn’t going to stop you from being attracted to that gorgeous brunette with the killer legs. I would never cheat on someone I was committed to, but being single takes that out of the equation. You never have to say “no.” Unless she has a weird rash, then just say “no.”

Finally, being single is the best way to get to know yourself. I have known people that jump from relationship to relationship and I always wonder if they just can’t stand being alone with themselves. Any relationship will fall apart if you don’t know who you are and where you stand. You may feel confident and think you know who you are, but the more time you spend with yourself, the more you will figure out where you stand in the world. I am not saying you should stay single forever, but you should work on getting to know you before getting to know someone else. Who knows, you could be really great!