Choose Right!
is right...

it's so easy to feel upset about some aspect of my last relationship and then look only for what I was missing in the next one, only to find I have been unfocused on so much else I need as well. I have made poor choices out of reaction to a previous love.

And I agree with other comments; there is no true ideal but there can be pretty close. In my experience women are more emotional than men and can make emotional decisions more often than men. But I have done it too; and that is part of what I consider when making these decisions. Taking time to get to know the person seems so key. No rush.

Everyone fits together differently. Some may not really want a partner, but they want an easier life; but not really willing to do the hard work to make it last. I look for this quality because most people are lazy about relationships; not really willing long term, to do the WORK.

Relationships that last, are hard work. That's just the way it is; every attempting to renew those early feelings is possible but both partners really have to want it.

I could go on and one, but I will say one last thing.. compatibility means listening and taking the time to hear the other. And chances are there is no ideal, just compatible. I don't want to exclude a really great person from being my partner in life, because I'm too much of a perfectionist. Relating as equals, attempting to understand each other, doing the work. That's most of what I need and look for.