Here is all I have to say on this. I have been horrid in the past at choosing a mate. I have been divorced 2 times and had a few failed relationships. One thing that I DO know without a doubt is you cannot expect anyone else to fulfill your needs. That is something you must do for yourself. You can, however, expect that you will find someone with which you enjoy being with, doing things with, planning with, going to movies with, having an intimate relationship with, share your deepest darkest secrets with, can't stand to be apart from, etc.
I love my time to myself, but I love being with others. I am a social butterfly. There is not a shy bone in my body and I love a social gathering. These things I need for me. My mate does not need to love social gatherings nor does he need to be the life of the party. He does, however, need to understand that I need that. But then, I also need to understand my mate's needs. Its a delicate balance. At this stage in my life I don't need someone to take care of me financially. I want a companion to share things with. To share life with. If that companion comes with an outer wrapping that appeals to me, so be it. But I can HONESTLY tell you I don't give a hoot about the outer wrapping. Honesty, integrity, trustworthiness, and the ability to love unconditionally are all I need. Oh, and hand-holding, hugs, and an occasional PDA. . .lol.
I dont mind so much as its fun to celebrate it with my daughter.... however... being the ONLY single girl at work SUCKS! haha.... Its like a freaking florist in there, all except for my desk!!!! 
