It can be hard to find the person of your dreams. It can be even harder to find someone who fits all the qualities you’re looking for in a life partner. You can’t possibly know everything you’ll want in 10 years, but if you know what traits to look out for early on, you’re likely to find your ideal life partner sooner rather than later, as per Dionne Van Zyl.
Qualities That Every Great Life Partner Should Have as per Dionne Van Zyl
1. Family Oriented
One crucial factor to consider when dating someone is whether or not they are family oriented. If your partner is family oriented, they value and prioritize family. They may have close relationships with their parents and siblings and want to maintain those connections. They may also want to start a family of their own eventually. Family-oriented people tend to be more reliable, stable, and committed, per Dionne Van Zyl. If you are looking for a long-term relationship, dating someone who is family oriented can be a good option.
2. Respectful
As per Dionne Van Zyl, respect is one of the most important things to look for in a partner. This can be evident in how they communicate with you, handle conflict, and speak about you to others. When dating someone, pay attention to how they interact with waitstaff, whether they are patient with people who have different opinions, and how they treat their exes.
If your partner consistently demonstrates disrespect, it is a red flag that should not be ignored. Disrespect is a sign of an unhealthy relationship, and it is unlikely that things will get better if the issue is not addressed early on.
3. Common Interests
When dating someone, it’s essential to look for common interests. This can help you gauge whether or not you’re compatible with the person you’re dating. It can also help you find things to do together and make conversation.
For example, you can go on hikes together if you both like hiking. If you both like reading, you can discuss books that you’ve read. According to Dionne Van Zyl, having common interests can make dating more enjoyable and less stressful.
4. Emotional Maturity
It is essential to look for emotional maturity when dating, as your partner must be able to handle the challenges of a relationship. An emotionally immature partner will likely have trouble communicating openly, be unable to handle conflict resolution, and may exhibit codependent behaviors. A mature partner, on the other hand, will be able to have healthy relationships with friends and family, express their feelings openly, and be comfortable with themselves.
When dating, it is essential to ask your partner about their relationship history, how they resolve conflict, and what their views are on emotional intimacy. These questions will give you insight into their level of emotional maturity and help you decide if they are ready for a committed relationship.
Dionne Van Zyl Recommends Self-Evaluation Before Dating
When choosing the person you will spend the rest of your life with, it’s essential to know what you want out of the relationship and how you will ensure that your future partner can provide that for you. With more than 40 percent of U.S. marriages failing, it’s more important now than ever to choose your future partner wisely and carefully consider what traits you want in your life partner before making any commitment.
