So, you're wondering if your current love is "the one." The one you want to move forward with. The one you cherish more than anyone else. The one you'll always have by your side.
But how can you tell for sure? Afterall, love isn't necessarily the single deciding factor. You can definitely love a person who isn't the right match for you long-term.
Luckily, you can consider these six important deal breakers before sealing the deal. If you find that your relationship contains even one of these deal breakers, you know that he's not the one for you:
1. They dominate over you
Of course, some people are naturally more dominant than others. That's OK, unless it's getting to the point where you feel they're dominating over you in a controlling or mean way. Do they demand things from you? Are they making you feel weak and powerless? While it's fine if he has a strong personality, you should never feel like you are being overshadowed or controlled.
2. You can't really imagine growing old with them
If this person is "the one," you should actually be excited to grow old with them. You should look forward to that day when you sit outside on the porch all wrinkly in your rocking chairs, reminiscing on all the good times you spent together. If you can't imagine a good long distance future with them, they're probably not fit for a lasting relationship with you.
3. You don't feel safe or secure with them
Risks and danger are for flings, not long-term relationships. They should make you feel completely, one hundred percent secure. You shouldn't have any doubts about how they'll treat you in the future. You shouldn't ever wonder if they'll end up hurting you or changing their mind about being with you.
4. You feel much more committed than they are
The two of you should have the same committment level to this relationship. Don't tell yourself you'll wait around and eventually they'll catch up to you. More times than not, you'll be lying to yourself.
5. You can remember times when your life was better than it is now
If you're not happier now than you were before you met your love, your relationship is probably not meant to last. They should make your life wonderful, not just OK.
6. Your gut tells you if you choose them, you'll be settling
Listen to your gut (or your heart, your natural instinct ... whatever you call it). If it tells you that choosing them will be an act of settling, you should treat that as a red flag. Don't settle. When it comes to your forever partner, "alright" just won't cut it.
This is one of the biggest decisions of your life, if not the biggest. Pay attention to whether any of these deal breakers describe your relationship, and remember - don't settle. If a deal breaker is present, you should accept they aren't the one for you and move on. Choose wisely.