Relationships Begin With an Attraction Between Two People
Men and women both say physical appearance is important, but for different reasons!
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Men are unconsciously attracted to women who exhibit these characteristics.
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Women are unconsciously attracted to men who exhibit these characteristics:
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Future Mates Look for Similarities in Each Other
If there are enough similarities, the two people may agree to spend time together in an ongoing relationship. There are a huge number of possible areas where the two may have common interests. Here are some of the most frequently listed similar areas desired in partners.
- Similar interests and goals. Sharing time together involved in a mutually interesting project is one of the better aspects of a long term relationship. However, periodically doing different things with people other than the partner is also important to prevent "burn out" in a relationship. Don't expect your partner to satisfy all your needs.
- Similar sexual appetites. Unfortunately, sex drive in men and women has evolved differently. Most men's interest in sex remains strong from puberty up to senility. Not so with women!
Costs Versus Rewards Must Be Fair
After two people have lived together for a time, the cost/reward ratio must be fair and equal for a continued happy relationship.
- Are the costs in time, energy, and commitment worth the rewards in the relationship? Both partners must put much of themselves and their resources into a relationship. That is the "cost" of the relationship. The "rewards" are all the things that make the relationship enjoyable and satisfying. If the ratio between the costs and rewards are not equal for both partners, one partner is going to feel ripped-off and feel used. It is going to be an unequal and unfair relationship. Continuation of the relationship will not be satisfying and will not be a wise investment for the one on the short end.
After the "love" wears thin, the real-life decision for continuing the relationship is based on the "bottom line": costs versus rewards. Are both partners contributing equally to the relationship and life together? If the costs versus rewards ratio is unfair, stress and resentment will cause daily emotional discomfort and eventually disease and an early death.
Fact 12: What Latest Research Reveals About Relationships
Men and women are attracted to different characteristics in a mate. Studying these differences in both you and your partner can greatly improve your relationship.
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A happy and loving relationship is priceless for insuring longevity and good health. The correlation between happy satisfying relationships/marriages and good health is high.
It is well worth working hard to create and continue the best relationship possible to insure a long and healthy life. The research on this is very compelling and should not be ignored!