Getting married is a big leap in life and choosing a lifetime partner is a matter that should not be left to chance. Really, it boils down to you and your choice. Now, before we dive into the topic, let’s put things into proper perspective. There are a gazillion of qualities that are ideal in a life partner and preferences do vary per person. We can’t talk about all the qualities out there, so today, we will focus on qualities that are important in the realm of conflict. Why, you may ask? Well, there is no perfect person and there is no perfect relationship. Therefore, conflict is inevitable. And in the many years that you will be spending together, conflicts and challenges will come your way. Hence, you may want to watch out for a partner with qualities that will aide in overcoming these challenges.

[From: Provençal Countryside Engagement / Photo: Darren Lebeuf]

(1) Respectful

A partner that respects you accepts you for who you are, including your shortcomings, and values your difference in opinion and interests. Respect opens a mutual space for each individual in the relationship to continue to grow. Without respect, the tendency is to become controlling, an act that stunts your partner’s growth and leads to resentment. The lack thereof, therefore, is a catalyst to even more problems. On the other hand, when a relationship is reflective of respect, couples are more in tune with each other as separate beings. They are able to manage differences and constructively resolve issues even with separate perspectives.

Continue reading “When Dating Gets Serious, What Qualities Should I Be Looking Out for in a Potential Life Partner?”