Some singles are perfectly happy being just that: happily single.

        “Unfortunately, society puts so much pressure on singles - especially women - to be in relationships that people forget that they have to be happy with themselves in order to be happy with someone else. That applies to friendships as well as intimate relationships.”

ONLINE CHAT

Talk about Cincinnati's singles scene with other area singles, share tips and advice or discuss this series online at Cincinnati.Com between 8 and 10 p.m. tonight.

        Michael Baisden is a best-selling author who has focused on men in relationships (Never Satisfied: How & Why Men Cheat, The Maintenance Man: It's Midnight, Do You Know Where Your Woman Is, Men Cry in the Dark). He lists characteristics happily single people have in common on his Web site (www.happilysingle.com). He says happy singles:

        • Aren't obsessed with having kids or being married.

        • Don't receive many phone calls after 9 p.m. They end their day in peace and quiet, not on the phone having a conversation with a dramatic friend.

        • Are health conscious, believing exercise and a healthy diet give them balance and boost self-esteem.

        • Love themselves and take full responsibility for their bad choices.

        • Never compromise their standards.

        • Are not content with what they accomplished yesterday but are always looking forward to what's next.

        • Live life to the fullest, treating strangers with kindness, are optimistic about everything and have a zest for life.

        • Don't define themselves by how much money they earn or their level of education.

        • Understand the difference between being religious and being spiritual.

        • Associate with other happy and positive people.

        • They have mastered the art of being alone.

        • They look forward to spending Friday night curled up with a good book and a glass of wine, or a basketball game on television and a cold beer.

        • When you call, they don't answer because the phone has been unplugged.

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