With over 8 billion people in the world, finding the right person can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. As the song goes, “There are two less lonely people in the world,” and while that sentiment is lovely, it doesn’t make the search any easier.
When dating someone, you naturally consider how well you get along, whether your lifestyles align, and if your future goals match up.
Maybe you have great chemistry, but that doesn’t guarantee a lasting relationship. Some couples meet in high school and stay together into their golden years, while others find their forever partners later in life—perhaps in their fifties, sixties, or even beyond.
So, no matter what your journey looks like, how do you know if you’ve met the right person? What are the signs you’ve met the one? [Read: Are soulmates real? The 20 signs you’ve found the one for you]
What Does it Mean to Meet the Right Person?
First of all, what does finding the right person mean? The right person is “the one”? Right?
They are the person that makes you happy even on bad days. You might describe them as your soulmate, your true love, or your best friend.
Some people would say that life is meaningless without this person. Although we would argue that not everyone needs a partner, and your life is perfectly valid without one. If you want to meet the right person and that is the journey for you, you feel fulfilled around them.
It could take time, but finding the right person, if they’re out there, is not impossible. It could take years or decades, but that person is out there and worth the wait.
But, one thing many people worry about is letting their right person pass them by. How do you know if you’ve already met the right person and let them pass you by? What are the signs you’ve met the one? Hopefully, the coming signs will open your eyes to your person. [Read: What does love feel like? 33 signs what you’re feeling is true & real]
Why You Haven’t Found the Right Person Yet
It can feel frustrating when you look around and see everyone seemingly pairing up while you’re still searching. Friends are posting pictures with their significant others, and you can’t help but wonder why you haven’t found the right person yet. The truth is, there could be several reasons holding you back. Here are some common factors to consider:
1. You’re Not in the Right Headspace
If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, it might be hard to focus on finding the right person. Your mental and emotional well-being plays a significant role in how you approach dating. [Read: How to start dating again: Signs you’re ready to get back in the game]
If you’re preoccupied with work, personal issues, or just feeling down, it can be challenging to open up to new connections. Take some time to sort through your feelings and ensure you’re in a positive mindset before diving into dating. When you’re ready, you’ll be more open to recognizing the signs you’ve met the one.
2. You’re Too Picky
Having standards is important, but being overly picky can limit your options. Sometimes, people get so caught up in what they think they want that they overlook great potential partners.
While it’s essential to know your deal-breakers, try to keep an open mind about qualities that may not be on your checklist. Sometimes, the right person may not fit your initial expectations but could surprise you. Finding the right person often requires some flexibility.
3. You’re Settling for Less
On the flip side, you might be settling for less than you deserve. It can be easy to stick with someone who doesn’t fully meet your needs because you fear being alone or think it’s better than nothing.
However, this can lead to frustration and disappointment down the line. Remember that you deserve a fulfilling relationship that makes you happy. When you prioritize your happiness, it’ll be easier to recognize the signs you’ve met the one. [Read: Should you settle for less when you can have much more?]
4. Your Judgment Can Be Clouded
Sometimes, emotions can cloud your judgment. When you’re eager to find the right person, you might overlook red flags or ignore gut feelings about someone. It’s essential to approach dating with a clear mind and be honest with yourself about what you want and need.
Take the time to reflect on your feelings and consider whether a potential partner truly aligns with your values. Clear judgment is crucial when it comes to identifying the right connections.
5. It’s Not Time…Yet
Timing is everything in dating. Sometimes, you might feel ready for a relationship, but the universe has other plans. Life circumstances, personal growth, or even timing with other people can play a huge role in your dating journey.
If you find that the right person hasn’t come along yet, it might just not be your time. Be patient and trust that the right opportunity will present itself when it’s meant to happen.
6. You’re Not Putting Yourself Out There
If you’re not actively seeking out connections, it can be tough to find the right person. Dating requires a bit of effort and vulnerability. If you’re shy or hesitant to engage with new people, try to step outside your comfort zone. [Read: 34 secrets to be more social & connect with people if you have no social life]
Attend social events, join clubs, or even explore dating apps to expand your options. The more you put yourself out there, the higher your chances of meeting someone great.
7. You’re Stuck in Your Comfort Zone
Staying within your comfort zone can limit your dating opportunities. If you tend to date the same type of person repeatedly, it may be time to shake things up. Be open to exploring different personalities, backgrounds, or interests.
This openness can lead to unexpected connections that might surprise you. Finding the right person often involves stepping outside of what you’re used to.
8. You’re Focused on the Wrong Qualities
It’s easy to get caught up in superficial traits when looking for a partner. While physical attraction matters, prioritizing looks over personality can lead you astray.
Focus on qualities that truly matter for a lasting relationship, like kindness, empathy, and shared values. When you concentrate on what’s important, you’re more likely to find someone who truly complements you. [Read: 34 qualities of a good person & BIG benefits of being a nice human being]
9. You’re Comparing Yourself to Others
It’s common to feel pressure when you see friends or peers in relationships. Comparing your journey to others can create unnecessary stress and self-doubt.
Everyone’s path is different, and just because it seems like others are finding love doesn’t mean you’re falling behind. Instead, focus on your personal growth and what you’re looking for. Celebrate your journey and trust that your time will come.
10. There’s No One for You…
… and that’s okay. Sometimes, you might feel like there’s no one out there for you, and that’s completely okay. It’s important to recognize that being single doesn’t equate to being unworthy of love. This period can be an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. Embrace this time to focus on yourself and what makes you happy.
When the right person does come along, you’ll be in a better place to appreciate them fully. Trust the process of finding the right person, and remember that it’s perfectly fine to take your time. [Read: 52 signs you’re meant to be forever alone and single & you like it that way!]
Signs You’ve Met the One
If you’re wondering how to know if someone is right for you, try to relax. Worrying too much leads you to overthink. You don’t want to be putting pressure on yourself *or your partner.* Enjoy your time with the person you’re seeing, and you’ll find the answers you’re seeking.
Take your time and really reflect on your relationship. These signs will help you figure things out when finding the right person.
1. You’re Willing to Risk It
When you’re with this person, you’re not scared to open up and be vulnerable. You want them to see the real you, even if it risks them not feeling the same way.
Now, this sign alone doesn’t mean you found the right one because love is a two-way street. But the fact you’re willing to put it on the line shows your true feelings. [Read: 12 genuine signs of true, unending love in a relationship]
2. You Don’t Fear the Relationship
If someone is scared of committing to another person, odds are they don’t feel that person is really the one for them.
But you don’t fear the relationship, and neither do they. Instead, you want to commit yourselves to each other.
3. They Don’t Hold You Back
You don’t want to have to carry your partner on your back throughout your life. This isn’t what finding the right person and a relationship is about.
Your partner walks beside you, not behind or ahead of you. They don’t hold you back from doing what you love; instead, they push you forward. [Read: 50 questions to test your compatibility in the relationship]
4. You Fit Into Each Other’s Lives
You can envision your life with this person; they get along with your family and friends, and while you may not share every interest, you find common ground that allows you to enjoy time together.
If you can picture a future together, it shows that you fit into each other’s lives. It’s about wanting the same things and seeing your lives meshing for years to come.
Importantly, you don’t have to sacrifice major parts of yourself to make it work; instead, it’s about finding ways to fit into each other’s lives while still being true to who you are.
5. You Don’t Want to Snoop
You don’t feel the need to snoop through your partner’s things or check who’s messaging them. Instead of being jealous or suspicious, you trust your partner and your relationship.
If you feel the need to check where they are and what they’re constantly doing, there’s distrust on your side. Why? You need to figure this out. [Read: Should you trust your gut? How to listen to it or ignore it]
6. They Don’t Want to Change You
Finding the right person means being you are who you are. And, of course, there may be things about yourself you want to change, and that’s fine.
But your partner didn’t come with a list of things they don’t like about you. They accept who you are, flaws and all. They may even see your flaws as cute little quirks.
7. You Feel Safe and Secure
If there’s one person who should make you feel safe, it’s your partner. If you don’t feel safe and secure around them, they’re not the person. Period.
Trust is everything, and if you don’t trust them, you don’t have anything going for your relationship. [Read: How to date someone with trust issues and win their love and trust]
8. You Want to Work on Your Relationship
To be with this person, you want to put effort into the relationship. You want to build a future with them and be vulnerable around them.
No relationship is perfect, but if you’re wondering about the signs you’ve met the one, ask yourself if you’re willing to work out the issues you have, to make things work.
When they’re right, you’re willing to put in the effort and have the hard conversations to be the happiest you can be.
9. They Listen to You
If you’re upset or hurt when you express your feelings, they don’t dismiss you. Instead, they listen and talk to you about what happened.
A good partner is someone who shows genuine interest in your life and well-being. They actually want to know what’s going on in your life. [Read: These 18 emotions are things you should never feel in a healthy relationship]
10. You Talk Openly About Sex
Well, this is important. Most couples have sex, but very few can comfortably sit down and talk about sex. You want a partner you can talk to about sex and all aspects of it. They should be interested in how to please you and vice versa.
You should talk about what you want, what you like, and more specifically, what you don’t like.
11. You’re a Team
Find the right person means when you are together, you’re a team. There’s nothing that can come in the way that you won’t conquer. You don’t fight against each other but rather work together.
Your relationship isn’t about competing with one another; it’s about becoming an unbreakable force. Your strengths and weaknesses balance each other, and that’s a great sign this person is the right one for you. [Read: 25 must-follow relationship rules for happy love]
12. When You’re Happy, They’re Happy
Now, we don’t mean “happy wife, happy life.” Because a relationship is about two people, but if you both make each other a priority and pursue your best interests as a couple, your feelings begin to merge.
Your partner should be happy when you’re happy, and vice versa.
13. You Can Argue
Can you imagine being with someone you can’t disagree with? That would be boring and impossible. Even the best relationship has disagreements. And feeling comfortable and safe enough to express your feelings even when they don’t align is vital to know if someone is right for you.
Disagreements are normal in all relationships, but if you feel you should suppress your voice, that’s a problem. Remember, finding the right person doesn’t mean having zero arguments. [Read: Why fighting in a relationship is important and how to do it right]
14. You Inspire Each Other
You two aren’t only a team, but you inspire each other to chase after your dreams and goals. Your partner wants the best for you and will cheer you on while you complete your goals.
If you want to know one of the signs you’ve met the one, try to see if both of you support each other. The right person is someone who inspires you to be the best version of yourself. [Read: The signs your partner is truly supportive of your goals]
15. They Comfort You When You’re Upset
You want a partner who will be able to support you when you’re feeling down. Though this sounds simple, it’s not easy to find a partner who’s compassionate and attentive.
Instead of making fun of you or criticizing you for being upset, they listen and comfort you. They hurt when you’re hurting.
16. You Are Comfortable With Them
You don’t feel nervous or on edge around them. It isn’t that you feel familiar, but you feel like you can be yourself. You aren’t hiding your weirdness or hesitating to say something. Being with them feels like home. [Read: How to feel secure in a relationship]
17. You Make Each Other Better
You shouldn’t want to change each other but when you meet the right person, you want to be better. Maybe you weren’t the best partner in the past. But with them, you’re better, and they are too. Wanting to be better for each other is a sign you met someone right for you.
18. You’re On the Same Page
You don’t just click and read each other’s minds. Instead, you communicate openly and honestly.
Since you met, you’ve been so genuine with each other that you don’t have doubts. Instead of assuming things, you talk about everything to ensure you are clear. [Read: How to effectively communicate in a relationship]
19. You Life Isn’t Absorbed By Them
Some people think meeting the right person is about your life feeling fulfilled by them. That can happen, but they should be a part of your life, not all of it.
When you meet someone, and your life doesn’t flip upside down but is rather made better, it is a sign someone is right for you.
20. You Compromise
Compromise sounds easy, but it can be hard to meet someone in the middle when you aren’t with your person. You don’t want to give up anything for someone else.
But finding the right person for you, compromise doesn’t feel so bad. You want to make them happy. [Read: How to compromise in a relationship and not feel like you lost out]
21. You’re Confident
This relationship doesn’t make you second guess yourself. You aren’t constantly wondering if they’ll dump you or leave you.
You feel confident that they’ll answer when you call and that they’ll be there at the end of the day. Instead of wearing down your self-esteem, they raise it.
22. You Enjoy Being Bored Together
You can be bored together, and it isn’t awkward. Sitting in a car in silence for hours isn’t painful. It is enjoyable because you’re together.
You can sit around watching TV, reading, or cleaning and still enjoy your time just being near them. That is rare but of finding the right peson. [Read: Why women love the strong silent type]
23. You Have a Shared Sense of Humor
You know you’ve got something special when you and your partner can crack jokes and genuinely laugh together. A good sense of humor can really make a difference, especially during tough times.
If you can find joy in the little moments and share a few laughs, it creates a bond that makes your relationship stronger.
Plus, it makes everyday life a lot more fun and a lot less stressful. So, if you both can keep each other giggling, you’re definitely on the right path! [Read: How to make someone laugh over text: Secrets fun texters know]
24. You Can Visualize a Future Together
Thinking about the long-term with your partner is a big deal. If you can easily picture yourself doing things together in the future—like traveling, starting a family, or just cozying up on the couch—then that’s a solid sign you’re compatible.
Being able to share your dreams and plans not only strengthens your connection but also shows you’re both on the same page. If you’re both excited about what’s to come, it means you’re both invested in making this relationship work. This kind of thinking can really deepen your commitment to each other!
25. You Respect Each Other’s Independence
In a healthy relationship, it’s super important to let each other have space to be yourselves. If you feel free to pursue your hobbies, hang out with friends, and enjoy some time apart without any jealousy creeping in, that’s a great sign of finding the right person!
Respecting each other’s independence builds trust and security, which is key to a strong bond. It’s all about growing as individuals while still enjoying each other’s company.
Recognizing that you don’t have to be joined at the hip is essential for a long-lasting relationship. Celebrating each other’s independence can actually bring you even closer!
26. You Respect Each Other
If you respect each other, you have something many couples don’t. Respect is wildly overlooked. If you truly respect and appreciate each other’s opinions and care for one another as partners and people, you may have found the right person. [Read: Real soulmates? The 20 signs you’ve met the love of your life]
Tips for Finding the Right Person
So, you’ve made the decision to find the right person for you. You’re done being single and ready to dive into the dating scene!
Whether you’re looking for something serious or just exploring, it’s all about making genuine connections. No pressure, though—just enjoy the journey! Here are some friendly tips to help you in this exciting adventure of love.
1. Know Yourself First
How can you find someone if you haven’t found yourself yet? So, before finding the right person, it’s essential to understand who you are. Knowing your values, interests, and what you want in a relationship is crucial for finding the right person.
Take some time to reflect on your past experiences and identify what made you happy or unhappy in previous relationships.
This self-awareness will help you pinpoint what you truly need in a partner. Plus, it makes it easier to recognize the signs you’ve met the one when you start dating. The better you know yourself, the more likely you are to find someone who complements you.
2. Be Open to Different Types of People
When you’re on the journey of finding the right person, it’s important to keep an open mind. Sometimes, the best connections come from unexpected places or with people who don’t fit your usual type. Being flexible in your dating choices can lead you to discover new qualities that you appreciate.
It’s easy to overlook great potential partners because they don’t match a specific checklist. So, embrace the variety and get to know different types of people. You might just find that special someone where you least expect it.
3. Communicate Clearly
Effective communication is key when it comes to relationships. Being open and honest about your thoughts, feelings, and intentions will help you build a strong foundation. If you want to know if you’ve met the right person, pay attention to how easily you can talk about important topics.
If you feel comfortable discussing your needs and desires, that’s a great sign. Clear communication also helps avoid misunderstandings that could lead to unnecessary conflict. Remember, a solid connection is built on mutual understanding and respect.
4. Take Your Time
Finding the right person doesn’t have to be a race. It’s essential to take your time and let relationships develop naturally. Rushing into things can cloud your judgment and may lead to overlooking red flags.
By taking the time to get to know someone, you can better determine if they are truly a good fit for you. Enjoy the process of dating and discovering new things about each other. Remember, there’s no deadline for finding the right person, so enjoy the journey.
5. Observe Behavior Over Time
Actions speak louder than words, and that’s especially true in relationships. As you’re finding the right person, pay attention to how they treat you and others over time. It’s easy for someone to put on a good show in the beginning, but true character reveals itself through consistent behavior.
Notice if they are reliable, respectful, and supportive as the relationship progresses. If you see positive behaviors that align with what you value, those are good signs you’ve met the one. Take your time to observe these traits before diving in too deep.
6. Trust Your Gut
Your intuition is a powerful tool when it comes to dating. If something feels off, don’t ignore that feeling. When you’re finding the right person, it’s important to listen to your instincts about a potential partner.
Sometimes, your gut can pick up on subtle cues that you might not consciously notice. If you feel a connection that seems genuine, go for it. But if you sense that something isn’t right, it’s okay to step back. Trusting your gut can save you from potential heartache down the line.
7. Embrace Vulnerability
Opening up to someone can feel risky, but it’s a vital part of forming meaningful connections. When finding the right person, being vulnerable allows you to share your true self and deepen your bond. This doesn’t mean you have to share everything right away; rather, it’s about gradually revealing your thoughts and feelings.
Vulnerability can create a safe space for your partner to do the same. If both of you are willing to be open, it strengthens the relationship and helps you recognize signs you’ve met the one. Embracing vulnerability is a crucial step toward building a lasting partnership.
They’re Trying to Find You, Too
Finding the right person isn’t just about your journey; it’s also about theirs. Whether your future partner lives next door or is a hundred miles away, they’re out there looking for you too. It’s a two-way street, and sometimes it just takes a bit of time and patience.
[Read: 24 secrets to be patient in a relationship & avoid risking a new love]
Trust that your paths will cross when the time is right. So keep an open mind and heart as you navigate your way to finding the right person. Remember, the adventure is just as important as the destination!