Staying single isn’t about being alone, it’s about saving yourself for someone who’s truly worth it. It’s about understanding that you deserve the best, and refusing to settle for less.

Being single gives you the opportunity to recognize and appreciate these rare qualities when you see them. And trust me, when you do meet someone with these 10 unique traits, you’ll know it was worth the wait.

In this article, we’ll explore the 10 rare qualities that make a person truly special.

And remember, it’s not about finding a perfect person, but rather finding someone whose imperfections complement your own.

Because in the end, that’s what makes a relationship truly worthwhile.

1) Unwavering respect

In the realm of relationships, few things matter more than respect.

And those who have been in successful, long-term relationships understand the importance of this trait.

Often, you’ll find yourself in situations where your partner’s actions may not align with your expectations. It’s during these moments that respect really comes into play.

Respect is the cornerstone of every healthy relationship. It’s about acknowledging the individuality of your partner and appreciating their unique qualities, even when you don’t agree with them.

Think about it. It’s easy to respect someone when everything is going smoothly. But the real test comes when you face challenges and disagreements.

When a person truly respects you, they value your thoughts and feelings, even when they conflict with their own. They listen to you, consider your perspective, and treat you as an equal at all times.

2) Genuine kindness

Kindness is a virtue that seems straightforward, but carries a profound impact in relationships.

I once dated a person who was incredibly kind, not just to me, but to everyone they encountered. From the way they treated waitstaff at restaurants to how they interacted with a homeless person on the street, their kindness was unwavering.

This was a trait that I hadn’t placed as much importance on before. I assumed that being kind was a given, a basic characteristic that everyone possessed to some degree. But seeing this person’s genuine kindness in action made me realize how rare and precious it is.

Their kindness wasn’t performative or reserved for certain people or situations. It came from a place of sincere care for others’ well-being. It showed me their capacity for empathy and compassion, traits that are invaluable in a partner.

3) Emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence, or EQ, is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions and the emotions of others. It’s a quality that plays a crucial role in forming meaningful relationships.

Dr. John Gottman, a renowned relationship expert, has conducted extensive research in this field. One of his most compelling findings is that couples with high levels of emotional intelligence tend to have happier, more fulfilling relationships.

This is because individuals with high EQ are better at handling conflicts, understanding their partner’s needs, and expressing their own feelings in a constructive way. They are also more likely to be empathetic and supportive when their partner is going through a tough time.

If you’re looking for a long-lasting relationship, keep an eye out for someone with high emotional intelligence. It’s a trait that often signifies a person who can navigate the complexities of a relationship in a mature and thoughtful way.

4) Consistent reliability

When it comes to building a strong relationship, reliability is a trait that cannot be overlooked.

Reliability is the quality of being dependable and consistent. It’s about showing up when you say you will, following through on your promises, and being there for your partner through thick and thin.

In a world where uncertainty is a given, having someone you can rely on provides a sense of comfort and security. It’s about trust and creating a safe space where both partners can be themselves without fear of sudden change or disappointment.

If you’re looking for someone to share your life with, wait for someone who proves their reliability time and again. Because in a relationship, having someone you can count on is more than just a comfort – it’s a necessity.

5) Shared values

Values are the guiding principles that shape our lives. They influence our decisions, our actions, and ultimately, our relationships.

When you share values with someone, it means you both see the world through a similar lens. It gives you a common ground to stand on and a shared direction to move towards.

Whether it’s the importance you place on family, your views on honesty and integrity, or your belief in personal growth and self-improvement, sharing these key values can strengthen your bond.

When it comes to finding a partner, look for someone who shares your core values. Because while interests may change and circumstances may shift, shared values remain constant. They form the bedrock of long-lasting relationships.

6) Unconditional love

Love is the foundation of any relationship, but unconditional love is what makes it truly special.

Unconditional love is when you accept and cherish your partner for who they are, without any conditions or expectations. It’s about seeing their flaws and weaknesses, and still choosing to love them wholeheartedly.

In a world where conditions and standards are often placed on love, finding someone who loves you unconditionally is rare. It’s a kind of love that doesn’t diminish with time or adversity. Instead, it grows stronger.

7) Excellent communication

Communication is the heartbeat of any relationship. It’s the tool we use to express our needs, our wants, and our feelings.

I used to be in a relationship where communication was a constant struggle. We loved each other deeply, but our inability to effectively communicate created a barrier between us. Misunderstandings and misconceptions piled up, leading to unnecessary conflicts and a sense of disconnect.

This experience taught me the value of good communication. It’s not just about expressing your thoughts, but also about listening to understand. It’s about being open to feedback and willing to work through disagreements.

When looking for a partner, keep an eye out for someone who values and practices good communication. Because when words flow freely and understanding is mutual, love thrives.

8) Comfortable silence

In our chatter-filled world, silence is often seen as awkward or uncomfortable. But when it comes to relationships, silence can be a beautiful thing.

Being comfortable in silence with someone signifies a deep level of understanding and connection. It means that you don’t need words to feel close or to express your feelings.

It’s about being able to sit together in silence without feeling the need to fill the void with small talk. It’s about enjoying each other’s presence, even when words are absent.

So if you’re searching for a meaningful connection, look for someone who can appreciate the beauty of silence as much as the beauty of words. It’s a quiet trait that speaks volumes about the depth of a relationship.

9) Resilience during adversity

Life is filled with ups and downs, and how a person handles adversity can tell you a lot about their character.

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from life’s challenges and to remain hopeful in the face of hardship. In a relationship, this quality is crucial as it ensures that both partners can weather the storms of life together.

When you’re with someone who demonstrates resilience, it encourages you to be stronger and more resilient too. It fosters a supportive environment where both partners can grow and learn from their challenges, rather than being defeated by them.

So when you’re considering a potential partner, observe how they handle adversity. Because a person who faces difficulties with grace and resilience is someone capable of nurturing a robust, lasting relationship.

10) Self-love and independence

While being in a relationship is about partnership, it’s equally important to maintain your individuality.

Self-love and independence are crucial. They signify that a person knows their worth and isn’t reliant on their partner for validation or happiness. This is not only healthy for the individual, but also for the relationship.

When two self-loving and independent people come together, they form a partnership that’s based on mutual love and respect, rather than dependency. This lays the foundation for a balanced, fulfilling relationship that allows both individuals to thrive.

The ultimate goal isn’t to find someone who completes you, but someone who compliments you.