i had been in longterm relationships since i was 16..my first lasting for 3 years, then 2 weeks later i got with another man who i was with for 4 1/2 years...when that fell apart, i didn't know how to be on my own...didn't think i could. but managed, and ended up even going to live on my own, for that exact reason, i felt i needed to be able to do it, and felt i SHOULDN'T need/want a partner.

that only lasted 8 months when i met DH and have been with him since...but have to say i am a hell of alot less dependable on DH than I was with my exs.

I know i'm not currently single, and not who you were really aiming your question at...but oh well =P

I think it takes a bigger person to be how you feel - to be able to be alone, and be happy and content.