I Don't Make Mistakes

Talking with my friends, I was put on the spot one day. The conversation was brought to a point where people were listing the characteristics they sought after in their significant other. I had a list of physical attributes that were a mash-up of the most attractive parts of super models, actresses and singers. This was hardly a list of qualities defining a soulful and deep relationship.

It was pointed out that this was not uncommon. I am a guy and I don't think about these things as much as women do. (I'd like to point out that this assumption is completely inaccurate. I spend each second that I'm alone thinking about the emptiness that sits in my heart.) But I think I've finally figured it out.

In the past, I've only seen my previous relationships as complete and utter failures. I saw myself as an individual that could not be loved and, in a sense, could not be respected. It hurt conjuring up memories and I tried to banish them from my mind. It was only after my most recent breakup did I start seeing my previous relationships as steps for growth. Rather than a view of my previous relationships as mistakes, they are actually learning opportunities.

1. People should have one face: More than one of my ex-girlfriends have been the type to adapt to situations to a fault, where different people brought out different personalities within them. Letting people believe you're someone you're not is as good as lying to their face about who you are.
2. Smiles can warm hearts: As much as I *heart* cleavage, a radiant smile will make me weak in the knees and forget the words that are coming out of my mouth.
   
3. Fake smiles are worth $0: Smiles are a measures of happiness and when they are fake, it means you are not happy spending time with me and trying to hide it. It's better to frown!
4. A little fire keeps things interesting: I don't want a woman that burns down the house all the time but disagreeing with me is fine and even encouraged! (Just make sure your arguments are logical) I love debating with other people. It keeps me excited and interested. It reveals people's personalities, tolerances, thought processes, beliefs and much more.
5. Fuck the club: I was never into clubbing and I don't see that ever changing. A woman needs to get over the phase where they dress up and shake their butt for attention and free drinks.
6. Don't aim for everyone: Not everyone is going to be your friend. Hell, not everyone is even going to like you. Know the people you can trust and put your time and effort into them. You'll be stretching yourself too thin if you try to impress everyone.
7. You don't need to be on top: I don't expect everyone to fall into their dream job straight out of University like me but you should know where you're going. You don't need a career but you should be working towards one.
8. Similar interests: I have disagreed with this point until recently. I've come to realize that if you don't like movies, we're not going to have much to do together.
9. Open-mindedness: I know certain friends love hearing me complain about Chinese people. My main gripe with them is their close-mindedness. So, "I don't like Chinese girls" is actually "I don't like close-minded girls".
10. The world is going to beat you up: Don't try to take on the whole world. You don't need to run to Africa and solve world hunger to achieve your full potential. There's lots you can do around your life (right now!) that is worth your effort. You just have to find it.
11. No fat chicks: No fat chicks!!!

Of course, this isn't an exhaustive list nor is it set in stone. I'm also expecting to eat my words as a girl comes along who defies all these "rules" and I fall in love for the first time. So people, what's on your list?