Is it to be or not to be? Dating for marriage is not easy; don't we all wish we had a manual that told us how it is meant to be done? A book with all the answers. That would be so nice but way too easy- instead we are left to our own devices as we navigate the tricky course of dating.

As we invest in people and discover good things about the individuals we are dating, we must also watch out for these five traits that can help us identify if we are dating our potential ex-husband's:

1. Possessive of you

If the person you are dating is constantly seeking to know where you are, who you are with, why you are there and what you are wearing... WATCH OUT. Possession may not always be that obvious, but it can creep into your relationship without you being aware of it.

Watch out for subtle cues of possession in the way he texts you. If he texts you and within three minutes you don't reply he feels certain he needs to text you again... and again until you reply, let that be a red flag.

Men who cannot leave you alone or be without you are only going to heighten their sense of attachment once you are legally bound.

2. Always has to be doing something

This may seem harmless at first sight, but a man that is constantly seeking for a thrill or the next big thing will never be content with what he currently has. It may be a whirlwind of excitement to get married and start a life together, but once the newlywed shine fades he will be over this adventure and ready for something new. This constant desire to experience and see new things will ultimately drive him to seek gratification and self-fulfillment in places that might not be with you.

3. His way or the highway

Be aware of the designated decision maker— he is trouble! If a man is so set in his ways that he can't include or value your opinion, he will not change once you become equal partners by law.

4. Scatter-brained

He is all over the place figuratively and literally. His thoughts are not held together, he is driving here and there and he cannot stick to a plan to save his life. His lack of assertive organization can lead to high levels of miscommunication as your relationship continues. This high level of uncertainty can lead to fights and frustration.

5. Does not make others feel appreciated

A man who cannot make you and others feel appreciated is one you should be careful around. Having a gracious and caring persona is not attained overnight, it is a conscientious decision a person has to continually make every day. If he is not making the effort today, odds are he will only get worse as time goes on.