not settle for a man that is less than perfect for me

I’ve officially decided that my list of criteria is not working. All the guys I fall for don’t meet all my “requirements,” but I don’t even care because I like them for who they are, not who I want them to be. So, I’m scrapping the list. Love cannot be contained in a compilation of bullets. If I happen to fall for a guy who is also crazy about me, then I will take that chance at love. It may not work out, but I am shutting myself out from the possibility of a successful relationship. The perfect guy for me may very well not be contained in my list!

I must say I am really proud of myself for holding fast to this goal. I have had a couple of potential relationships present themselves in the past few months, but I know deep down that these guys, while they are great, aren’t the right man for me. But instead of settling, I said no. Even though it was really hard. I’m still hopeful that I will find the right man someday.

I was talking with a friend tonight about my expectations and he brought up an important point. It is possible to expect too much of one person. I need to be careful to hold myself to high standards but at the same time allow myself to be surprised and maybe date someone that I wouldn’t normally consider. Maybe the right person for me isn’t the one I would immediately think of! There is a fine balance that I need to work out.

Here are some things that I look for in a future spouse.

Disclaimer: The reason I have such high expectations is that I am perfectly content staying single and I don’t feel the need to get married. Thus, if I were to marry someone, they would have to be better than being single, which is tough to beat.

1. Artistic or interested in the fine arts, particularly film and literature.

2. A committed Christian who is active in the church and has a thriving personal spiritual life.

3. A good listener, particularly when I am struggling.

4. Understands introverts and respects the need for alone time.

5. Not defined by his career.

6. Does not practice chivalry. I want to be treated as an equal, not as a princess.