Shawn
A relationship isn’t a do or die affair, but a lot of people don’t see it so; many enter relationships for the sake of being in a relationship without considering other important factors — and it’s probably why many relationships fail a lot of the times. One major yardstick people use in entering a relationship is attraction. People choose only who they are attracted to, and forget other valid signs.
First, to have a relationship with someone, there has to be love. A genuine feeling of love ought to be present, not from one partner but both partners. This is an important yardstick for being in a relationship; the relationship ought to be founded on love.
Another important yardstick for being in a relationship is compatibility. How compatible are you two together? How understanding is your relationship with each other? How long can you exist together without conflict? I believe understanding and compatibility should be an important yardstick for a relationship.
Finally, commitment is another yardstick that shouldn’t be joked with. Many couples who enter relationships fail to gauge their partner’s commitment level. You should only be in a relationship with someone who’s committed to the relationship and who’s serious about making it work, just as you are. If commitment is lacking, then that relationship will only be a child’s play.
There you have it guys! So what have been your yardstick for having a relationship with someone?