jjcobwebb

By Jennifer Weatherhead

1. He keeps agreements
If your man says he will be there to pick you up after your marathon spa session -- he will be, no ifs ands or buts. If he is going to be late, he will do the courteous thing and call to let you know. He'll be there -- so don't be late! He's also the kind of guy who won't ditch you for plans with his buddies. You can rely on him to do what he commits to. "This reveals that he is conscientious, reliable and has integrity -- key traits of a great partner," says Doiron.

2. He's emotionally mature and responsible
He's not the type to blame others, or circumstances for life situations. He accepts accountability for his actions and is willing to self-examine, take responsibility and grow personally. When it comes to finishing up some work or procrastinating by watching a football game, he's going to get the work done first, then watch the game. While every man has a bit of the "boy" in him, he is all man when it really counts. He's a man who can look after himself (he can cook, do his laundry, hold down a job and keep his finances in track -- all without help from you).

3. He's honest
You're not going to catch your guy in a lie. If he is out having fun with his guy friends, then he tells you and treats you with respect. Not only does he treat people fairly and honestly, he lives by a code of ethics that demonstrates his integrity. "What he tells you about himself, actually matches with reality," says Doiron. "The longer you know him, the more this is demonstrated. He is an open book and doesn't mind you flipping through the pages."

4. He loves being with you
"A man who shows you in so many ways that you light up his life, is a definite keeper," explains Doiron. He really wants to be with you to share time and experiences with you, even if that means heading to the mall to ponder the sales. He is happy to hear your voice, get an email from you when he's at work, and his face lights up when he sees you. It's great to be wanted and he can't hide how he feels about you. Lucky you!

5. He's a communicator
"A good communicator knows that there are two sides to a conversation -- that of the speaker and the listener -- and they both need to take turns!" insists Doiron. This means he actually listens to your side of the story, not just nodding his head or impatiently waiting for his turn to talk. He should be genuinely interested in what you have to say, whether chatting about fave movies or having an argument. Conversely, he will expect you to do the same when it is his time to talk!

6. He has a great relationship with family and friends
Ever hear the saying that if you see how a man treats his mother you will know how he will treat you? Well, it's true. "A man who has a sound relationship with his family and friends reveals he has good family values and the potential to be an excellent husband and father," says Doiron. And while every family has ups and downs, seeing your man stand tall and be supportive of his family is a good sign he's one to hang on to, because he will do the same for you.

7. He is emotionally available and confident
He's not afraid to tell you exactly how he feels. "A man who is confident in his own skin and who can express who he is and how he feels without worrying about what anyone thinks, is a great catch," says Doiron. He will be emotionally available to you because he trusts you and he loves you. He won't get upset if you tell him you think Brad Pitt is sexy (and you shouldn't when he says he thinks Scarlett Johnasson is sexy!). He knows you love him and is confident about the strength of your relationship. Now that's a real keeper!