Finding the right significant other can be one of life’s most challenging tasks. There are billions of people on the planet to choose from. Physically, people come in a myriad of shapes and sizes. Internally, people can possess a vast variety of traits that compose their persona. Stifling through all of these combinations that make up individuals and determining what you find attractive can be a daunting task. Then, in addition to determining the type of person you want to be with, you have to find the actual individual that possess those characteristics. Then, on top of that the two of you also have to mesh well together. Once again, finding true love can be really tough, and unfortunately sometimes it still doesn’t end up working out. On the other hand, if you do find a real relationship where everything settles perfectly into place, it can be a really beautiful thing. I think that some of the relationship goals that the media portrays are unrealistic and irrelevant to reality. So I have compiled some things that I consider to be real-life relationship goals.

1. First and foremost, the two parties involved have to be on the same page with morals and values.

Differences in relationships can be a good thing, but these foundational concepts indisputably need to match up or there will be some bumpy roads ahead.

2. The other person shouldn’t interfere with your life journey.

Rather, you should walk the path together, encouraging one another’s dreams and aspirations. A relationship should be constructive and you should want to build one another up.

3. As superficial as it sounds, there has to be physical attraction.

If you still think “dang my girl is fine. I really want to kiss her right now” when she’s rocking the no-makeup-sweatpants-ponytail look, then you’re on the right track.

4. Another key factor is passion.

A stagnant relationship probably won’t end up being a healthy one. A relationship where you belly-laugh in good times, cry rivers in bad times, and have the occasional (constructive and respectful) arguments is one where you will find the most emotional connection.

5. You have to respect one another.

One person is not supposed to be the leader or better individual. As much as girlfriends love to say that their boyfriend is “so whipped” and would do anything that they say, a relationship should be an even playing ground.

6. The person should make you a better version of yourself, not a completely different individual.

Far too often people will change for the sake of a significant other. You shouldn’t try to conform to someone’s standards. You should find someone that loves your quirks and compliments them rather than someone who attempts to repress them.