Obviously, there’s no such thing as a perfect person, but there is someone out there who’d be perfect for you.
Finding them, of course, can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. However, you’re not completely powerless here. By putting yourself in the right headspace, knowing what you want, and being open to the journey, you can actually make it way more likely that you’ll come across your person in the near future. It’ll take a bit of time and patience, but these things can help you along the way — without all the stress.
1. Get clear on what you’re looking for.
Take some time to figure out what truly matters to you in a partner. Is it shared values, a sense of humour, or a love for adventure? When you know your priorities, it’s easier to spot someone who fits your vibe. It’s not about creating a checklist but understanding what makes you tick.
2. Focus on being your best self.
Instead of chasing someone to complete you, work on feeling fulfilled on your own. Dive into your interests, take care of yourself, and embrace the things that make you happy. When you feel good in your own skin, you’ll naturally attract people who vibe with your energy.
3. Be open to trying new things.
Sticking to your usual routine can make meeting new people tricky. Join that class, attend that event, or try that hobby you’ve been curious about. Stepping outside your comfort zone isn’t just good for personal growth—it’s also where great connections often happen.
4. Know your deal-breakers.
Not everything is negotiable, and that’s okay. Whether it’s major values or lifestyle choices, being clear on what doesn’t work for you saves time and heartache. Knowing your boundaries helps you stay grounded when emotions start to kick in.
5. Don’t rush into something just to avoid being alone.
Loneliness can make almost anything seem tempting, but settling rarely leads to happiness. Waiting for someone who genuinely clicks with you is worth it, even if it takes a little longer. Alone time can actually be pretty awesome once you embrace it.
6. Reflect on what your past relationships taught you.
Think about what worked and what didn’t in previous relationships—there’s usually a lesson in there somewhere. Maybe it’s about communication, boundaries, or knowing when to walk away. Using those insights helps you make better choices next time around.
7. Be open to meeting people in unexpected ways.
Your future partner might not come from the dating app or the setup your friend suggested. They could be someone you meet at a dog park, in a bookshop, or even during your morning coffee run. Staying open to chance connections makes the process less rigid and more fun.
8. Pay attention to who they are now, not who they *could* be.
It’s easy to focus on someone’s potential, but that doesn’t always translate to a happy relationship. Look at how they show up for you and the people around them right now. Falling for someone’s “what if” version often leads to disappointment.
9. Learn to roll with rejection.
Not every connection will work out, and that’s part of the process. It doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you—it just means they weren’t your person. Treat rejection as a redirection and keep moving forward with your head high.
10. Focus on quality over quantity.
Source: Unsplash Endless swiping and casual chats might feel productive, but meaningful connections come from being intentional. Invest your time and energy in people who show genuine interest and effort. Sometimes, less really is more.
11. Build a life you love without waiting for someone else.
Source: Unsplash Your happiness shouldn’t depend on whether or not you’re in a relationship. Chase your dreams, explore your passions, and make your life full on your own. When someone does come along, they’ll complement your world, not complete it.
12. Watch how they treat other people.
Source: Unsplash How someone interacts with strangers, friends, or family says a lot about their character. Kindness and respect aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re essentials. If they’re great with you but rude to a waiter, take note—it matters.
13. Don’t ignore your instincts.
Source: Unsplash If something feels off, trust yourself. Those little red flags you brush aside early on can grow into bigger issues later. Your gut is often a better guide than your heart when it comes to spotting potential problems.
14. Be patient—it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
Source: Unsplash Good relationships take time to build, and finding the right person often requires patience. Rushing into something for the sake of being in a relationship rarely works out. Relax, enjoy the process, and trust that things will fall into place when they’re meant to.
15. Keep your expectations realistic.
Source: Unsplash No one is perfect, and expecting perfection will only lead to disappointment. Focus on shared values, emotional connection, and mutual respect rather than ticking off a list. Real love is about accepting each other, flaws and all.
16. Lean on your support system.
Your friends and family can offer perspective and support when dating feels tough. They might even see things about potential partners that you miss. Plus, having a solid support system reminds you that you’re loved, no matter what.
17. Be upfront about what you’re looking for.
If you’re serious about finding a partner, make it clear from the start. Mixed signals often lead to mismatched expectations. Knowing where you both stand avoids unnecessary confusion and wasted time.
18. Be willing to meet people halfway.
Compromise is part of any healthy relationship, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of your values. Look for a balance that works for both of you. Relationships are about teamwork, not sacrifice.
19. Trust the process.
Dating can be unpredictable, but that’s also what makes it exciting. Stay hopeful, keep putting yourself out there, and trust that the right person will come along. Sometimes the best connections happen when you least expect them.
20. Enjoy the journey.
Dating isn’t just about finding “the one”—it’s also about meeting new people, learning about yourself, and creating memorable experiences. Take the pressure off and let yourself have fun. After all, love is just one part of the bigger picture.
