By MyTopMatchMaker Karen Stein
What are the five things you look at most closely when determining a “good match”?
Similarities. I truly believe it’s not a make or break thing, but having similar interests just really helps, and having a common ground to stand on is a great igniter to a relationship.
Spiritual or religious practices. This tends to be either one of the most important or least important requirements of my clients.
What makes them, them. For instance, I like to know what they think makes them unique, and people tend to stop and think on this one. They begin to not only understand what they want, but potentially further understand themselves, all with a question that they were never asked or never thought about.
History. Childhood is arguably the most influential period of our lives. I want to know where there was joy, where there was pain. I ask them: “What things would you take from your childhood and what would you leave behind?” This is an essential base to build upon.
Their journey. We all have a vision. Maybe you only see a few weeks out, or you have your whole life planned, but what I I think about is, can these strangers come into each other’s lives – which they will inevitably change – and help each other continue their own individual journeys?
What are the three most important factors that determine the success of a long-term relationship? You may have heard them all before, but there’s a reason.
Communication. It’s a must; it’s practically a survival tactic. The happiest couples I know on some level communicate openly. From my experience, a lack of communication can lead to an array of problems.
Morals/values. It helps, but your ideas of fun don’t have to line up. However, in general, morals and values do. People keep these things close to heart, so being on the same page allows a certain vitality in many areas of the relationship.
Loyalty. Be loyal. Be true. That means something different for everyone, and I’m not here to define it for you, but whatever that means to you or your partner, be it for each other.
Not to get too cheesy, I’ve been lucky throughout my life. I’ve seen that love transcends all and, more than anything, I rely on my intuition. It’s not a game of numbers, I’m not an algorithm. People know when it’s just right – and it’s a beautiful enigma.