For many of us, being single at the holidays can be an awkward and sometimes painful experience. But there are lots of reasons to celebrate our single status this season, too! And just in case you need a reminder, here are seven of the best reasons to give thanks for being single this time of year.

1. Football season
   Ladies, you do not have to pick a team, soothe a bad loser or clean up after any of the big games this season. And fellas, you don't have to apologize for your raucous team spirit, spending too much time with your buddies or miss that awesome play because you were too busy trying to explain football to your gal. Go team!
   
   
2. In-laws
   Another reason to celebrate! There will be no obligatory - and let's face it, awkward - visits to the in-laws this year. Nor will there be any squabbles about whose family you'll be spending the holidays with. Count your blessings!
   
   
3. Permission to flirt
   Go ahead, flirt with that cutie ahead of you in the gift wrapping line! Ladies, ask who the furry slippers are for. And if he says his mom, chances are, he's single! And gentlemen, stumped for what to say? Ask her where she got her necklace. Tell her your sister/cousin/co-worker would look great with one just like it. That'll break the ice!
   
   
4. Gift-giving
   The truth is, being single at the holidays is good for your budget. There are no expensive gifts to buy to show how much you care, nor is there any pressure to get that oh-so-perfect gift. Why not stash some of that cash in your savings account, or better yet, splurge on yourself!
   
   
5. Time with friends and family
   Remember, the holidays are not just a romantic time. Make time this year for catching up with old friends, spending quality time with family and maybe making new friends, too! You never know who you'll meet at your friend’s holiday soiree. Where's the mistletoe?!
   
   
6. Possibilities
   Unlike your married and otherwise paired-up friends, you never know who you'll share a smooch with under the mistletoe or when the clock strikes twelve on New Year’s Eve. Revel in the possibilities! Ladies, wear your sassy Santa hat with that red cocktail dress. And guys, put on that Tom Cruise flirt and dance like nobody's watching. Celebrate your fabulous self and imagine the possibilities for the coming year!
   
   
7. Reflect, renew, rejoice
   As the year comes to a close, why not indulge in a little selfish - and productive - "me" time? Reflect on the past year. Did you accomplish what you set out to do? What would you like to focus on in the coming year? Set some goals. Commit to that personal project you keep putting off. Make the most of this "me" time. Chances are it won't be forever. And you never know when Mr. or Ms. Right will come into your life. You want to be ready, right?!

Lisa Steadman, AKA The Relationship Journalist™, studies relationships and dating for a living.