I used to be afraid, too, but after reading these boards and another board specifically for Southwest "people" I feel more confident to book one way flights, especially with the Dings!
I can't tell you how many flights we took where I wouldn't check the schedule daily, and I didn't have Ding! and we lost so much money.
I initially booked a one way flight for me and my family for $149 One Way.....I booked it Knowing there would be a Ding, and sure enough, Ding! $99 from MCO and Ding! $99 down to $52 for TPA!
Now we have a $380 CREDIT for Our Next Flight in April (
DCL!!!) We also have the Southwest Credit Card and we're anticipating a free round trip ticket

Yeah! You Go, Mr. Banana!!!
I thank All The DIS'ers in the Know for helping me with my education on How To Save Money With Southwest Dings!!! Thank You!!!