You may want a love that lasts and still feel unsure how long to keep looking or whether to continue seeing someone. Start by naming what would make a relationship worth choosing in everyday life. Spiritual beliefs can help you describe what you hope for.

You can be open to meeting someone while keeping your own plans, friendships and limits.

On this page
  1. Describe the qualities you want to live with
  2. Enjoy attraction and give it time
  3. Ask directly about what matters
  4. Make choices that help you now

Describe the qualities you want to live with

Choose two or three, such as respect for your choices, willingness to talk about problems or a shared view of commitment. Think of a moment when each quality would show up in real life.

Enjoy attraction and give it time

Chemistry can be exciting. Over a few meetings, see whether interest is mutual and whether they follow through on small plans. Give yourself enough time to make choices freely.

Ask directly about what matters

Try “I’m interested in building a committed relationship. What are you hoping for?” You can listen to their answer and decide whether it fits what you want.

Make choices that help you now

Choose something you can look forward to this week, such as time with a friend, a project or a day outdoors. When you meet someone you like, make room for them at a pace you can sustain.