10 Questions To Consider Before Dating Someone Seriously (2 of 3)

5. Do this person’s morals align with mine?

It has often been said that if you want a relationship to last, you should develop common interests or engage in activities that you both enjoy, such as camping or joining a book club. But in truth, compatibility is more than just both of you happening to share the same interests in movies or music, you need to think about it more deeply.

How do they conduct themselves in their day-to-day lives? Are they responsible? Do they treat other people with respect? What is their worldview? What values do you imagine they would instill in their future children? Do these values conflict with whatever you would want to instill in your own children?

6. Do I love myself?

While it might seem cliché to ask this question, it is totally necessary. It is nearly impossible to give yourself to somebody and love them if you believe you are undeserving of their love. It is bound to create frustration and undoubtedly fosters emotional distance, which will ultimately doom the relationship.

7. What am I looking for in a significant other, and what am I looking to get out of this relationship?

What are some of the characteristics you expect in a partner? Are you looking for a people pleaser or someone who is blunt? Somebody who loves to be out and about on weekends or a homebody who prefers to stay in and watch Netflix on Saturday nights? Nobody will satisfy every single personality preference, but a relationship won’t last if the person exhibits none of the qualities you like.

Perhaps you are just searching for a shoulder to lean on. Or maybe you’re looking for a best friend. Of course, as alluded to above, you might just be looking for a “good time” without any of the other responsibilities that come with a steady relationship. You need to determine whether you’re entering the relationship for the right reasons and whether this person can help you achieve these goals (provided that these goals are mutual).