You've met someone new and you're ready to take the next step - a relationship! But what should you be looking for to tell if they're truly 'The One' for you? Well, there's not just one thing. There's 5 - and here they are:

1. The same direction in life:  its important that two people have similar goals and trajectories for their lives. When your both heading in the same direction, you're likely to end up in the same destination - happiness.
2. Chemistry:  it might go without saying, but chemistry is a key element in successful relationships. It can take time to become evident, especially if you or your date are too nervous in the beginning to be yourselves, but it has to be present (at least a little bit to start). Don't forget, chemistry that starts small but grows over time lasts for a long, long time.
3. Looks & similar place in life:  two pillars of a successful match are looks and status (ie. where you are in life). If those two factors align, it's likely that the rest will, too. Matchmakers often say: "If people like the way the person looks, they will like the person. If you're relatively the same status, you will be happy."
4. Common interests:  maybe you both like cooking and share new recipes with each other. Maybe you enjoy hiking or hate-watching bad movies. Whatever it is that brings you together, there should be something that you both can talk about and partake in. Matchmakers often say: "They have to have enough in common to have a conversation and also to teach each other different things."
5. The intangibles:  some of the traits on this list are temporary, and that's okay. While looks, status, and interests can change, they're still important catalysts for sparking a connection and bringing people closer together. But even before these things begin to fade, look for someone who demonstrates evergreen qualities like kindness and respect. Matchmakers often say: "You don't really need perfect teeth and broad shoulders when you're 70 years old, but you should be looking for someone that genuinely respects you and makes you laugh and is kind. That's what we find are the most important traits to look for in a match, are really the intangible."