Finding the right person to spend your life with is a big deal, really big.
It’s not like buying a new pair of shoes that you can just return if they don’t fit right; it’s more like choosing a home where you’ll live for a long time.
The person you choose will be there for the good times and the bad, so you’ve got to make sure they’re the right one for you.
Think about it: you’re choosing someone to celebrate holidays with, someone to help you when you’re down, and someone to cheer you on when things are going great.
I’ve listed 10 key things to look for in a partner. Keep them in mind as you’re dating and getting to know people.
It might take some time to find the person who fits all these criteria, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Ready to find out what these 10 important qualities are?
Let’s get into it.
1. Respects You
The first box to check is all about respect. It’s as simple as it sounds, but it’s a big one.
The person you’re waiting for should respect you – your choices, your personality, your dreams, and even your flaws.
They should value your opinions and listen when you speak. They should never belittle or make you feel small.
Remember, respect isn’t all about grand gestures; it’s in the little things too.
They ask for your opinion because it matters to them. They don’t make fun of your tastes or choices. They don’t cross your boundaries.
So when you meet someone who truly respects you and treats you as an equal in every aspect of life, that’s a pretty good sign you’re on the right track.
Keep this box at the top of your list because without respect, love doesn’t stand a chance.
2. Makes You Laugh
The second box is a joyful one – laughter. Life can be tough, and having someone who can lighten the mood and make you laugh is priceless.
Your special someone should not only crack you up but also be able to laugh at themselves.
Laughter is a sign of a good relationship. It shows that you’re comfortable with each other, that you can let your guard down.
More importantly, it speaks volumes about how much you enjoy each other’s company.
So if you find someone who can turn your gloomy day into a giggle-fest, hold onto them!
Life is too short to be serious all the time, and a partner who fills your life with laughter definitely checks this important box.
3. Supports Your Dreams
Box number three is all about support, particularly in pursuit of your dreams and ambitions.
It’s critical to find someone who not only listens to your dreams but actively supports them, encourages you and believes in you.
I’ve always dreamed of writing a book. It felt like a far-off dream until I met my partner.
They didn’t just nod and smile when I shared my dream, they took it seriously. They would ask about my progress, provide constructive feedback on my work, and most importantly, they’d remind me of my passion whenever I felt like giving up.
Their belief in me often felt stronger than my own, and that’s the kind of support that can lift you to new heights.
So don’t settle for someone who thinks your dreams are too big or unrealistic. The right person will be your cheerleader, pushing you forward even when the going gets tough.
4. Communicates Openly
Now, it might sound obvious, but effective and open communication is actually a rarity in some relationships.
Lack of communication can seriously harm a relationship.
Your future partner should be someone who can talk about their feelings honestly and openly.
They should be willing to have tough conversations instead of avoiding them.
They should be able to express their concerns and listen to yours without judgement or defensiveness.
Open communication fosters trust and understanding, and it’s a box that needs to be ticked for a successful, long-lasting relationship.
5. Loves You For Who You Are
This might sound like a line from a cheesy romance novel, but it’s crucial.
Your special someone should love you for who you are, with all your quirks and imperfections. They shouldn’t try to change you or mold you into their idea of a perfect person.
Love isn’t about finding someone perfect; it’s about finding someone who is perfect for you.
They should celebrate your strengths and be compassionate about your weaknesses. They should accept you for who you are, not who they want you to be.
When you find someone who looks at you, with all your flaws, and still thinks you’re the best thing that ever happened to them, that’s when you know it’s real.
They see the beauty in your imperfections and the magic in your madness.
This kind of love is rare, but it’s worth waiting for because everyone deserves to be loved for being their true self.
6. Shares Your Values
Now, this doesn’t necessarily mean you both have to agree on everything. It simply means that your core values, the ones that shape your beliefs and guide your decisions, align in some way.
I’m a person who deeply values honesty, kindness and ambition.
So when I met someone who also prioritized these values, it felt like finding a missing puzzle piece.
Our shared values became a solid foundation for our relationship. We understood each other better, and it helped us navigate any disagreements or conflicts with respect and love.
So don’t underestimate the importance of shared values. They play a significant role in the health and happiness of a relationship.
It’s definitely worth waiting to find someone who resonates with what you believe in.
7. Is Not Afraid To Apologize
Let’s be real, nobody is perfect, and we all mess up from time to time. But what sets people apart is their ability to own up to their mistakes and apologize sincerely.
The right person for you won’t be too proud or too stubborn to say “I’m sorry”.
They won’t brush things under the rug or make excuses for their wrongdoings.
They will take responsibility for their actions, apologize, and most importantly, make an effort to avoid repeating those mistakes.
An honest apology shows maturity and emotional intelligence. It shows that they value your feelings more than their ego.
So when you find someone who isn’t afraid to admit when they’re wrong, don’t let them go. It’s a sign of integrity and a trait of a good partner.
8. Shares Some Common Interests
You don’t need to have everything in common, but having some shared hobbies or passions can really strengthen a relationship.
This doesn’t mean you both need to be obsessed with the same things, but having a few common interests gives you activities to enjoy together.
It could be anything from hiking, cooking, watching movies, traveling or even playing board games.
Sharing these experiences can help you bond, create memories and keep the spark alive in your relationship.
So find someone who enjoys doing the things you love, because shared joy is double joy.
9. Makes You Feel Secure
No, I’m not talking about financial security (although that’s important too). I’m talking about emotional security.
From my own experience, I can tell you that finding a partner who makes you feel safe and secure can be incredibly comforting.
When I met my partner, one thing that stood out to me was the sense of security I felt with them. They made me feel loved, valued, and most importantly, secure in our relationship.
When you find someone who makes you feel secure, doubts and insecurities fade away. You know they have your back, that they’re in it for the long haul and they’re not going anywhere at the first sign of trouble.
This sense of security can provide a strong foundation for your relationship to grow and flourish.
Don’t settle until you find someone who gives you this feeling of emotional safety and security.
10. Is Your Best Friend
Your future partner should be more than just a lover; they should be your best friend.
This means they’re the first person you want to share good news with, the shoulder you lean on when times get tough, the one you can be silly with, and the one you can trust with your deepest secrets.
Love can wax and wane, but a solid friendship can keep a relationship strong even during the toughest times.
If you find someone who you not only love but genuinely like, that’s a love worth waiting for.
There you have it – the 10 boxes that your future partner should tick. Remember, these aren’t rigid rules but guidelines to help you find a meaningful relationship that brings out the best in you.
Don’t settle for less than you deserve. It might take time, but it’s worth the wait!
Can a relationship coach help you too?
If you want specific advice on your situation, it can be very helpful to speak to a relationship coach.
I know this from personal experience…
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Brendan Martin is a tech enthusiast with a deep understanding of the latest technological innovations. He explores the intersection of science and technology, providing readers with insights into the digital revolution. When not immersed in the world of gadgets and code, Brendan enjoys experimenting with DIY tech projects.