In love? Here’s how to tell if you’ve found Mr. or Mrs. Right

You’ve met a great new guy. He’s funny, hot and smart. Still you wonder, “Is this Mr. Right?” And how the heck can you tell?

New love is the first step in mate shopping. It pre-screens potential partners, like caller ID for the heart. Still, it’s far from the only criteria for selecting a husband or wife.

Consider if you’re even in the market. If you’re under 24, you’re probably not emotionally ready to settle down. Chances are good you haven’t lived much on your own, started a career or dated enough people to learn who’s right for you.

No matter how intense your feelings, you’re not mature enough to take that final step.

If you’re over 25, you may be considering a lifelong partner. Now’s the time to weigh what a future spouse brings to the marital table.

Sure, attraction is one factor. But equally important are such issues as character, ability to earn a living, absence of substance abuse, common interests, family history and commitment to the relationship.

Be sure to discuss topics such as whether or not to have children, where you plan to live and what religion you want to practice.

These make-or-break subjects may not seem relevant in the earliest stages of romance. They will, however, play a huge role in the ultimate success of the marriage.

Make sure your potential partner is even available for emotional involvement.

Guys and gals who are married or in other relationships aren’t free to be in the dating market. Their apparent willingness to get involved speaks volumes about their lack of character and long-term commitment to you.

Folks going through divorces or breakups should also be handled with kid gloves. Odds are good they’re in the midst of major personal disruptions and unable to offer the psychological energy that a boyfriend or girlfriend requires.

Be careful dating parents with young children. Their hands are already full raising offspring. And any ex-husband or -wife still in the picture will always yield more clout than you.

You may also find yourself in the midst of an ongoing conflict and inadvertently become one of the targets.

I’m not saying those relationships can’t ultimately be successful. Just proceed with wide open eyes.

Once you’ve chosen wisely, the next test is time. True love can’t be hurried. It must weather the challenges of months and years.

The potentials of rough patches are endless.

You may have disagreements about family or friends. Health crises might crop up. You’ll encounter stress at work or need to resolve differences in managing money.

Solving all the problems is never the goal. Rather, approaching them constructively and arriving at mutually workable solutions will determine the strength of the marriage.

How much time should you give a new relationship? One year at least. Preferably two.

Relationships, like fine wine, improve with maturity. If you give yours ample aging and your love continues to grow, then yes, you’ve found a keeper.

Congratulations. May you have a wonderful life together.