Hey everyone, it’s Ron here, flying solo today on the “Ron and Hope Unfiltered” podcast. Hope’s holding things down on the East Coast while I’m out here on the West Coast, and I promise, even though she’s usually the funnier one, I’ve got some valuable insights to share with you today—specifically about dating and relationships.
You see, I’ve been around the block a few times, and after years of counseling and observing patterns, I want to talk about those red flags we often overlook when we’re dating, especially if we’re searching for a life partner.
Let’s get right into it. First and foremost, one of the most critical aspects to look for in a partner is **character**. This might sound cliché, but trust me, it’s foundational. A person of character is someone who aligns their actions with their words. When you’re in a relationship, you want to feel secure, knowing that your partner will make decisions that reflect the same values you share. When that trust is broken, rebuilding it can be monumental.
Next up, let’s talk about **the duration of dating**. How long should you date? Well, I believe in love at first sight—I felt it when I met Hope. But here’s the catch: you don’t truly know someone until you’ve seen them through various seasons of life. You need to observe how they react under stress, when they’re sick, or when they’re celebrating a big win. This is essential to determine if they’re someone you can share a life with.
Now, I know societal norms vary by region. For example, folks on the West Coast often get married later than those on the East Coast. But regardless of where you are, if you’re in that 25 to 30 age bracket and looking for a partner, you need to reflect on these points.
Another thing to consider is **financial compatibility**. I’m not saying you need to chase after wealth, but it helps to be with someone who has aspirations and a plan for the future. Are they strategic? Do they think ahead? Money issues can bring immense strain to a relationship, and I can attest to that from personal experience.
Let’s also touch on the **law of compatibility**. Physical attraction is fleeting—it’s the deeper compatibility that will hold you together when times get tough. If you can’t communicate effectively or share the same values, the relationship will likely fizzle out, regardless of how good-looking they are.
And speaking of compatibility, life rhythms matter. You may come from different backgrounds, which can affect how you approach things like parenting or finances. These differences can be manageable, but it’s crucial to talk about them before making any permanent commitments.
Finally, the most important aspect of a successful relationship is friendship. Hope is my best friend. We share common interests, but we also complement each other with our differences. She brings spontaneity to my structured life, and together, we make a great team.
So, whether you’re dating or just preparing for the future, I hope this gives you something to think about. Relationships require diligence and honesty, and it’s essential to have these conversations before tying the knot.
Thanks for hanging out with me today on “Ron and Hope Unfiltered.” I hope you found this helpful. If you’re looking for a place to spend the holidays, join us online for our Christmas service—we’d love to see you there. Until next time, take care!