The Art of Dating: How to Meet a Family-Oriented Man

The art of dating is not an easy one to master, especially in our crazy modern world. Hook-up culture, constantly evolving lists of the best dating sites, and sky-high expectations can prevent you from getting what you want in love, especially if you want to settle down. Why not dodge the dating rat race and look for someone who’ll give you what you need? If long-term commitment and the patter of tiny feet is something you want in your future, you should be dating a family man! Our article gives you ten fool-proof traits that a family man defines.

He’s Reliable and Supportive

One of the easiest ways to spot a born family man is to show up when he says he will and keeps his promises. Nothing is more important for children than a stable parental figure they can rely on, and a man who follows through on what he says is the perfect model for that. On top of this, building a family can be stressful and chaotic, and you need to know that your man will be there to support you even when times get hard. Part of the art of dating is to spot signs in the early phases of a relationship that will pay off later in a relationship. Does your man turn up when he says he will, or is he flaky, canceling dates at the last minute? If he’s always where he says he’ll be, he’s a keeper.

He’s Close With His Family

A good relationship with his family indicates that your man will make a great father one day. A natural family man will prioritize family early in his life and won’t only wait until he has his own. If he is close to his parents and siblings and involves you with his family, then you’re likely to build a great relationship with this man.

He Isn’t Afraid of Commitment 

One of the key differences between a family man and a single man who is a born bachelor is their approach commitment. If you’re a veteran of the art of dating, you’ve probably experienced your fair share of players who don’t want to settle down in a hurry. While players fear commitment, a family man is excited by making a life with one woman. He embraces the intimacy and shared experience that a long-term relationship provides and doesn’t run away from his responsibilities.

He Knows What He Wants from Life 

One way to spot a family man online, or in real life, is to pay attention to his attitude and approach towards the future. Men who are not ready to settle down will probably avoid talking about the future or will seem indecisive about what they want from life. A true family is confident about what he wants – a committed relationship – and feels no need to hide this to seem aloof or master the art of dating.

He’s Honest 

Not only does a family man know what he wants from life, but he’s also honest and upfront about his needs. This is because family men have a fundamentally mature attitude to the art of dating and do not pretend to be someone they are not. This maturity can be characterized by a willingness to discuss his feelings or being unafraid to make the first move and come across as too keen. A family man does not need to play games, and he is ready to build a future with you.

Kids Love Him

Few things are more attractive than a man who is great with kids. Becoming a dad is one of the best family man jobs on the planet that this man can imagine. A man who is excited to raise his children will have a natural harmony with them and make an effort with any kids who are already in your life.

He’s Warm and Affectionate 

A family man will often exude a warm, nurturing energy and be comfortable displaying affection and loving emotions. When it comes to the art of dating, you might find yourself comparing a family man vs. a single man. Whereas men who are not ready to settle down can often come across as cold or distant, a family man will give you more attention and be physically present. Family men understand that to have a great family life, intimacy, and emotional connection need to be formed and maintained. This takes courage and strength as men like this need to be willing to face their own emotions and be vulnerable.

He’s a Good Listener

Listening is a crucial skill in the art of dating and relationships. If a man makes you feel truly heard, and like your opinions and feelings are valid and important, then he is worth keeping around. A man who listens will be able to take an active role in child-rearing and supporting you through a difficult pregnancy and parenthood stages. He is more likely to be emotionally focused on your relationship and offer support, advice, and care.

He’s Willing to Change and Works on Himself

A family is a constantly evolving and changing thing. Children do not stay in the same stages for long, and there is always some new challenge thrown your way. A family man will adapt to these changes and will not stubbornly try to cling on to their old single life at the expense of you and the children. When you’re mastering dating, look out for men who are flexible and who do not mind plans changing at the last minute. A family man will be in control of their emotions but not controlling and will be willing to change for the sake of your relationship.

He Wants a Family 

Of course, the most important trait which defines a family man is his true desire to have a family of his own. Many people fall into relationships because they do not know what they want or think they should. This can lead to resentment later down the line. A family man will vocally express their desire to have a family and make detailed plans, instead of vague ones.

Remember, the most important key to mastering the art of dating is to know what you want and go after it. Don’t settle for less than you deserve, and you will find the family man of your dreams!

Final Call: Are you new to the dating scene and looking for someone to settle down with? Where did you meet the family man of your dreams? Do you have a family? What are some of the challenges that your husband faces with this? Share your experiences in the comments!

Author’s bio:

Miranda Davis is a freelance writer in relation and psychology area. Miranda is interested in such topics as building healthy relationships between people, love/sex compatibility, and how to find the right balance in life in general. She is currently doing specific research on the best dating sites on the topic. Miranda loves cooking and long-distance walking.