Although the perfect Woman or Man does not actually exist in reality, what you might find is a person who is perfect for you. This is somebody who 'ticks all your boxes' and who you could potentially see yourself happily spending a lot of time with, now as well as in the future.

Sometimes it can help to note down your expectations. Divide it into "Essentials" (such as "willing to offer commitment") and "Would like, but not essential" (for example, "sporty" or "dark hair"). Listed here are a few ideas to get you started:

Are you searching for long term commitment or something a bit more relaxed? If you're searching for commitment, do you want a family one day? Do You Want a monogamous relationship? Is fidelity critical or is it not necessarily a problem? What level of independence do you need? Would you like to retain your individual lifestyles or do you think you're looking for 24/7 togetherness? Is instantaneous physical chemistry vital or do you believe that it can develop over time? Is it very important to you that you possess the same levels of libido? Do You Want someone close to your own age or would an older or younger mate appeal to you? Do you feel you will need somebody on your cultural or intellectual level? Do you want them to be your best friend as well as your partner? Do you think it's important to share a similar sense of humour? Do you admire an individual who's career-orientated and driven, or would you prefer someone who puts different aspects of their lives first? Do you mind (or want) a smoker? A drinker? Will they need to share similar passions as you; your love of dancing, vino, shows, rugby, books, kick boxing or reality TV shows?

Even though it is important to find out what you want, try to not be too demanding. The wider the variety of people you date, the bigger the possibility you have of meeting somebody who's right for you. Concentrate on a few of the truly essential dating criteria and make an effort to ignore the others. Keep refining the list, inject it with a little compromise and you will have a lot more fun on the way.

Should you actually meet a person who 'ticks all your boxes', you almost certainly will not know this at first glimpse; it is something that you'll have to uncover gradually. Although we've all heard the stories of 'love at first sight', unfortunately it's simply another one of those Hollywood myths. You are able to experience many feelings when you first meet somebody - lust, desire, longing, a 'connection' - but unfortunately, love is not one of them. Love can only be developed over a length of time, when you fully know about somebody; their shining qualities and their murky imperfections. It may be possible to know that you could have the capacity to love somebody after a few dates, however it will only grow into something long-lasting once you have really got to know each other.

As you get to know someone, they will invariably reveal certain traits, personal habits and behaviour. These may be characteristics which you love or they could be things which you simply can not live with. Alternatively, they may be traits that you could grow to love, but would not be on your initial wish list. This is how it should be; dating is a amazing way of learning more about ourselves and what makes us tick.

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Edward Smith has over 5 years writing experience on the web. Visit his latest flooring website that discusses stone floor tiles and limestone floor tiles that offer a lovely final touch to any home.