Finding an ideal partner is hard. And it seems that now it is more complex than ever. We are bombarded by images of perfect couples and fantastic lifestyles. And, worryingly, we are constantly convinced that specific lifestyles are the only good ones.

Some people are not interested in travel, while some don’t pay too much attention to the clothes and brands they are wearing. But the media are constantly bombarding us with how we should live and feel.

In the old days, you could just choose not to buy Cosmo or switch channels when lifestyle shows were on. But now, due to the internet and social networks, it’s impossible to avoid people telling you how to live your life.

That creates confusion, making us doubt our own choices. And that transfers to our relationships. How can we know what traits we want our partner to have when we are not even sure we understand what we actually want?

Men on Reddit’s AskMen share some of those rare qualities that make them feel like a woman is someone who could be a good partner, and here are some of the best answers. They provide valuable insight on what men actually want, and here is a spoiler – not beer and sandwich.

1. Talking people up

2. Showing interest

Two people can be compatible on multiple levels

3. Honesty is the key

4. Respecting differences

5. Effort is needed

Most often, people with extreme views are the loudest. Their provocative attitudes that women belong in the kitchen and need to be saints or whores according to their wishes get more attention than “normal” guy’s views on relationships.

Social media thrive on controversy and posts that provoke online debates to get more clicks and views. In turn, they will be shown more often than reasonable and insightful opinions.

That creates a false image that men and women are enemies and that there is a battle of sexes going on. While, in fact, we are working together toward a common goal – be happy together.

6. Clear communication

7. Enthusiasm

Most men here just want normal things – love, understanding, compassion. And most importantly – good communication. Without it, you can’t really express any of the things they’ve listed above.

The happiest marriages are between best friends

8. Accountability

Couples who appreciate each other are more likely to stay together.

9. Attitude

10. Genuine conversation

11. Again, conversation is the key. Not fights

12. Other interests

13. Empathy

If you get excited for your partner's good news, you'll have a better relationship

14. Being a nice person

15. Being a good listener

16. Compliments

17. Mindfulness

Relationship statistics show that 26% of millennials postpone marriage because they have not found someone with the right qualities, whereas 26% feel too young to settle down. Furthermore, 29% of them don’t want to get married because they lack financial stability.

72% of millennials also choose to remain single until they meet “the one.” They prefer being alone to being in a relationship just for the sake of it. It is clear that understanding the opposite sex needs some effort. But the same goes for every good thing in life.