Dating criteria

1. Intelligence

There's not much I have to say about this quality. I just know that the person has to be able to hold an intelligent conversation for at least an hour.

2. Confidence

Not arrogant or loud. But certainly not quiet or shy. Someone who's able to walk confidently, hold his head up, and who has good communication skills with those around him in general. He also has to be able to adapt to the different personalities that are out there. For example, I'd be impressed if my significant other was able to adapt to my father's personality while also knowing how to deal with the dynamic personalities of each of my close friends.

3. Maturity

He should act appropriately depending on the situation, and should be equal to me or further along in terms of school or a career. If the person is younger, I wouldn't mind dating him as long as he's responsible and has direction in his life. Someone who whines is irritating, and someone who isn't considerate will not impress me.

4. Sense of Humor

I should have put this quality up higher. Someone who is fun to be with but certainly not irritating. Something I've recently discovered is that I tend to enjoy the company of a date if we're able to bounce jokes off each other without much explanation or effort. It may sound simple, but very rarely have I met someone that caught my attention that I could do this with. All my closest male friends meet this criteria, and another person outside my circle whom I met two months ago was also quite good at this.

5. Physical Appearance

This is important from a practical point of view. Someone who looks clean and obviously keeps himself well-kept (hair, face, clothing). He doesn't need to cause me to turn my head the first time I see him (although that would be a bonus), but I should be physically attracted to him.

How ya doing, buddy?