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Do you check off qualities in a potential partner like you would groceries on a grocery list?

When I first started dating, I thought I knew exactly what I wanted and needed in a romantic partner, but as I've grown older I've dropped the "check list" approach. It's not that I don't still have standards or that I don't still look for compatibility or shared interests/similarity, it's more that I've realized by not giving people a chance that don't meet all the "check marks", I stand to miss out on wonderful people that often have "check marks" in other categories I didn't even realize were important for compatibility. Some of my best relationships and closest friends have been forged with people I initially never thought I'd get along with.

Mea 7 Apr 21
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41 comments

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2

Why not scrap the check marks altogether and go with the flow

I already have. 🙂

Even better idea

2

For anyone I'm going to let close... I only care who you voted for in 2016 primary & general. And yes I do ask. (I have cancer so if you didn't support me then, you don't need me in your life ever. I will admit, sad but true.)

@MogwaiPR hurt a bit today. Busy testing season at the end of the school year. Lots of time on my leg. BUT... I'm going to live (with cancer as a chronic illness) so this summer will be all about learning how to do that. 😉

4

I have two lists. One is red flags, the other is what I want. Obviously I’m not gonna give up my red flags list on a dating site. My what I want list is getting smaller and smaller all the time. The one constant that remains is a man’s ability to finish this poem. “Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night.” It’s that simple. It’s really not about religion. So don’t get scared. Don’t Google it! lol Generally I know if he knows the poem he’s probably my kind a guy. It’s a start anyway.

is gonna die like everything else, it’s his only right
Lol

Sorry, but I can't walk away from a movie trivia question. I'm pretty sure that is has to do with Wolfbane blooming and The Wolfman. The old gypsy lady recited it to Larry Talbot. I promise I didn't google it, otherwise I'd know the whole thing. Might've been something about the moon also. Did I win? Or was it from "Mamma Mia"?

2

It never crossed my mind to do so. Well, no theists or new agey types, but that’s a given.

Like a software that requires minimum Windows 95.

3

I have a reject list,
so the same, but in reverse

same

2

Looks like I am in the minority here. I’ve recently added a checklist to keep me from walking in blind. I’m a far too accepting person. I can love just about anyone. It’s been a problem. My list includes red flags and personality requirements that were an issue in past relationships. They aren’t required to hit all the wants, but I do look at the percentage they fill and use the list as a guide when I ask questions to get to know them.

3

Checklist no. But I have learned that there is requirements that vary depending on the person.

Right! I used to think I had a type. But, now I don't feel like I have to have a type, I just know when someone is NOT my type. I do have a couple of deal breakers though.

6

Yes, but just like once I'm at the grocery store, I'll come back with a bunch of things not on my list, and often forget several things I needed to buy. 🙂

This ? lol

3

I have never had a "check list" personality has always been my "Priority"

Coldo Level 8 Apr 21, 2018
1

I like a checklist, but it isn't realistic for people. If you change the dynamic from demands to desires then more options exist.

I like a practical checklist of bare minimums such as: not being a serial killer, not being a pedophile, not having anger problems and abusive behaviors, having a good work ethic, and being loyal and respective of people. After that, amongst some other bare minimums, you can try to develop relationships with anyone.

2

I don't have a checklist so much as a list of things that if someone is into it means I like them much more and when someone starts showing and mentioning things that I really like or have always wanted in a partner I make a mental note of it. I never really have anything go anywhere because I am clueless with flirting but I still keep my mental notes lol

2

I think a combination of qualities can lead to attraction, sometimes unexpectedly when something you thought you wanted is absent in the person. I evaluate on a case by case basis!

1

All the people who have meant something to me never came off a checklist. It was like when they showed up and as I got to know them I just sort of "knew." As it should be -- the best relationships happen organically, a feeling that "this is just right.'

1

Life is too short to make checklists for everything. I like to take risks every now and then, and have met some decent people along the way by doing so.

2

I have more of an idea of what I want to experience, for example, connection, laughter, great places to hike together, fun, intellectual stimulation, harmony.....so it is a list but not of qualities of the person..but what I bring to table that someone might l I'm e to experience too.

2

I have certain things that I know I'm not willing to compromise on but I try to keep an open mind about looking for potential partner.

3

I am about chemistry. If it isn't there all that other shit doesn't matter. l find different things charming and captivating in each woman l am attracted to, and it is seldom the same thing in each person. Intelligence and humor are a must. I am not talking genius, just no ignorant rednecks. I have spent too much of my life around those folks and l spend as little time around them as possible.

2

No

2

No never, it starts with 'fancying' someone. One can and does fancy the oddest people so having a shopping list is, for me at least, a waste of time 🙂

5

If you are a Trump supporter, hit the back button NOW.

I'm seeking an athletic, intelligent man with a great sense of humor who treats me with respect and kindness. Conversation and witty banter delight me. Although I'm a good cook, I want a man who also cooks. Everyone loves to hear those magic words: "Dinner is served."

Shared recreational activities are a bonding experience for couples. That's why I want a man who also loves hiking.

1

In a sense quite but in general I don't go looking for partners but if I find someone attractive and compatible with me I'll generally see what else we have that's compatible or desirable.

2

I don't, but I should.

3

I just go with if I find them interesting and attractive. There are red flags (Trump supporters) that would definitely stop me from dating someone , but I don't really have a checklist.

2

Only for certain things.

Ex: Must like/tolerate cats as I’m not getting rid of them.

2

Nah. I just check off the "deal breakers".
Astrology, Anti Vaccers, Single-hair phobes, Have to talk every second, Andrew Lloyd Weber fans ...
After that, I just sit back and learn, and hope THEY don't have a "deal breaker" list of their own. 🙂

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