If you ask most women what they envision their future partner to be, you would probably get the answer, “Prince Charming.” We all have sketched out in our minds what we consider to be the “perfect” partner. I will admit, I am guilty of this myself. However, we find the “tall, dark, and handsome” only in fairy tales. But what about reality? We in today’s dating world focus ourselves so much on the aspect of physical appearance, that we really miss the important characteristics that make that person unique!

To find that "perfect" person, however, we need to know what we are looking for. So readers, what qualities should you look for in a soulmate?

1. Honesty.

A partner who isn't truthful is one who not only lies to you, but to themselves. Honesty not only builds trust but is the cornerstone of a successful relationship.

John 3:18 “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

2. Shares the same values.

Nothing is more attractive and healthy in a relationship than when you can connect to each other on all levels through religion and values, this helps form a strong relationship. Seeing eye-to-eye on important values is the basis for a solid foundation.

3. Ambitious.

A partner who is aggressive in the workforce and wishes to better themselves, in my eyes, is attractive. Someone who exudes quiet confidence is appealing.

4. Intelligence.

When discussing the qualities I look for in a man, the same question always arises, “Intelligence is a boring quality, where’s the excitement in that?” This intelligence I speak of does not necessarily mean having a Doctorate degree, rather, knowing how to handle certain situations, and being the kind of person who will make good choices and provide knowledgeable advice.

5. Confident but not perfect.

Most women don't want perfect, rather a woman wants someone who is comfortable in their own skin, and carries themselves with class, someone who is assertive, but not cocky. When a person feels secure in their own skin, he makes his partner feel secure.

6. A Good Listener.

Communication is another key factor in a strong relationship. You should be able to open up to one another and discuss your hopes, dreams your insecurities, etc. and feel comfortable doing so. Through communication, you can build up someone's confidence, give advice, bounce ideas off one another and be a positive influence.

7. Family Oriented.

Personally, I find a man who is close to his family, desirable. Being of Italian descent, family is very important. It is your family who will stick by you through it all, who will lift you up and give you confidence when you're feeling low. Further, a man who is close to his family and who respects the women in his family and treats them well will treat you with the same respect. I am fortunate and thankful to have very supportive, loving parents, an over-protective older brother, and a younger brother who looks up to me. At the end of the day, it's all about family!

Exodus 20:12 “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”

8. Has a sense of humor.

Every person needs a partner who can make them laugh. A man with a sense of humor in my eyes is sexy. After a good or bad, long or stressful day, a man who can make me laugh is a man who is worth keeping. He should also be able to laugh at himself!

9. Loyalty.

Many relationships today lack something so essential to building and maintaining a strong relationship.When in a relationship, it is vital to be loyal to one another. Being loyal is an indication of your faithfulness, and proves you are both invested in the relationship.

Proverbs 3:3 “Never let go of loyalty and faithfulness. Tie them around your neck; write them on your heart.”

10. He's a Gentleman.

He’s the guy who holds the door open for you and lets you pick the restaurant. He's the guy who compliments you. He’s chivalrous, courteous, compassionate, honorable and respectful.