In your search for a life mate, be certain you look for the characteristics that truly make a difference in long-term relationships. Don’t be fooled by the “cover” of things—always be sure to look under the surface. Following up on last week’s post, here are the remaining five characteristics that will serve any long-term relationship well:
1. Confident: While arrogance is toxic, confidence is a great quality. You want someone who feels good about whom s/he is and doesn’t need you to prop her/him up all the time. Stay away from those who feel the need to constantly brag about their accomplishments and frequently point out how lacking others are. At some point, you’re likely to end up on their “lacking” list.
2. Good sense of humor: The ability to laugh at one’s self, at another person’s jokes and at life’s crazy happenings is a wonderful quality in a person. Look for someone who can balance humor with seriousness as appropriate—you will have a much more enjoyable future.
3. Supportive: One-way relationships are miserable—stay away from them. Be sure the person is able to receive support from you and freely give you support when you need it. Mutuality is pivotal in any healthy relationship and a must if you want happiness.
4. Responsible: Finding a partner who is a hard worker, responsible and someone you can count on is important for long-term happiness. As with everything else, be sure there is a balance. Marrying a workaholic is no better than marrying someone who is irresponsible and dependent on you. Look for the balance.
5. Self-reflective: Having a partner who is willing to look at him/her self in an effort to grow is a great thing. Having one who thinks everything s/he does is fine, is not a great thing. Avoid those who have a general attitude of, “I am who I am” and who have very little willingness to work their side of things.
If you’re in the dating field, be clear about what you’re looking for—both in the person and in a relationship. Even if you’re only looking to have fun and don’t want anything serious, be careful about the character traits of the person you’re “just having fun” with. Too many people (and women in particular) fall in love with someone they knew from the beginning wasn’t a good partner because “just having fun” fell into “I’m in love.” Be smart and be careful—the choices you make today could impact your life for many tomorrows. Choose wisely.
Challenge: Know the characteristics that make a good lifetime partner and seek them out. Don’t get caught up in the “cover,” since it’s not uncommon for seemingly wonderful covers to have toxic thorns inside. Be wise and when it comes to dating always be the Chooser, NOT the Choosee! https://lisamerlobooth.com/women-dating-tips-for-finding-the-right-guy/