someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future

Beyond the typical -- good sense of humor, etc. -- I think there are a few characteristics that I've learned I work really well with and/or I've found are more vital to the kind of relationship I want to be a part of.

It's not romantic, but I highly value a person who is good at conflict resolution. Everybody wants to spend time with people who they have common interests with, but more than enjoying a person's company, which is obviously important, I want to be with someone who I can face issues with, and whether we are on the same side or not, we can learn to thrive together. And I think this, in many ways, goes hand-in-hand with a good work ethic, which is rediculously important.

Another characteristic I look for in people is their adaptability. When it comes to being in a relationship with me, adaptability is definitely more important for the sanity of the fortunate young lady than it is a benefit for me. As I've learned about my own personality, I've learned that spontaneity can be good or bad (depending on who it affects), and I know my randomness could wear on a person if they were not built to deal with it. But knowing that, finding a person who shares this characteristic with me makes for a really great connection.

I would say those are the two traits that really make a long-term difference to me. Of course, I want the rest... the sense of humor, the adventurousness, the like-mindedness, the comfort in who she is instead of the desire to be who others want her to be, the selflessness, and the many other things that (I think) everybody wants in a person. Also, being easy on the eyes sure doesn't hurt.