What to hold out for

11 Things Every Girl Should Hold Out For

1. A guy who can make you laugh. Some things in life are not funny. Can he make you at least chuckle when the chips are down?

2. A guy who will laugh at your jokes and “get” you. He might not understand you perfectly on the first date, but if you think you’re funny at all, I hope he gets that and appreciates it about you. Someone that connects with you and your intricacies is someone to hold out for.

3. A guy who will attend your lame “things.” Adult dance recital, Mom’s birthday party? Find the guy who will go to something boring even though he will get nothing out of it—but he'll go for you.

4. A guy who inspires you to be a better person.  The ultimate person you want to spend your time and your life with should teach you something, show you something new and inspire you to grow and be a better human being.  the inspiration can take you a long way....

5. A guy who will give you a thoughtful gift or card. Not every time, obviously, but I would hope this dude would have his moments of showing you he has thought about you and knows you. 

6. A guy who is honest. I do not care how painful the conversation may have to be, if the guy can be honest....he earns a great deal of respect from me.  To err is human, and surely we will all disappoint, make mistakes and have our share of things that are hard to admit.  The man who can be honest in good times and bad is a person worthy of long term commitment.

7. A guy you respect. Does he have a good head on his shoulders? Does he generally like his job? Is he proud of himself? Does he make the world a better place somehow or care about it at all?  Let’s hope so, ‘cause if you think he’s a lazy idiot, you’ll end up resenting him.

8. A guy you have good chemistry with. He doesn’t have to be George Clooney, but you should be attracted enough so that every time you have an argument, you will be motivated (by your underlying desire for him!) to work it out. Not to mention, maintaining an active intimate life is truly important to staying close to someone over the years....that chemistry is important for keeping the energy going!

9. A guy who agrees with you about travel. If you have wanderlust and he never wants to leave his hometown, don’t compromise by staying with him long-term and staying home. It’s fine to be a homebody, but if you're interested in exploring, find a guy with the travel bug. Otherwise, you’ll look back one day when you’re too old, tired, or broke and you'll wish you had seen the world.

10. A guy with similar family goals. Don’t compromise on whether or not you’ll have kids. If you want them, find a guy who does.  I want someone who feels as sure as I do—and I can't talk anyone in or out of anything.

11. Wait for someone who sees you the way you want to be seen. He thinks you’re smart, compassionate, beautiful and powerful—always. Even on days when you can’t believe any of that about yourself.

What are you holding out for?