Dating rules have changed quite a bit in the last few decades. Sometimes it seems like they change so quickly, it’s hard to keep up. While guys were once expected to make the first move and show up at your door with a bouquet of flowers, now it doesn’t matter who makes the first move and formal first dates rarely happen. These days there’s a lot of texting, subtle Instagram likes, and long streaks of photos exchanged on Snapchat. Who makes these rules, anyway? And where are they written down?

Today’s “dating game” can feel very complicated. It seems like a long shot these days to expect a guy (or girl) to act completely loyal, and some girls feel as if it’s almost inevitable for the guy they’re “talking to” to also be “talking to” other girls at the same time. Some say that’s just the way it is these days. But I don’t think that’s true. I don’t think that’s how it should be, and I don’t think that anyone should settle for this kind of superficial relationship.

Of course, everyone’s relationship will be specific to them. But there are some things that shouldn’t have to be compromised. Your partner should always respect you, in every way. This means always waiting for consent, and never pressuring you into anything. It also means not talking to other people in ways that make you uncomfortable. Flirting with other girls, even over social media, is a form of disrespect and shouldn't ever be tolerated.

Another aspect of a romantic relationship that should never have to be compromised is feeling appreciated. Don’t get me wrong—no one can ever make you feel appreciated 100 percent of the time. But your partner should also never make you feel bad for no reason. Overall, you should feel loved and appreciated by your partner, and they should never hold that appreciation over your head or make you feel like you have to earn it.

Your partner should always build you up and challenge you to become a better person. If you feel like your significant other is dragging you down morally or emotionally, it’s time to find someone else. Your partner should help you to become the best version of yourself! You should be able to be completely yourself with them, and they should bring out the best in you.

Don’t be afraid to wait for this kind of person. I promise you, it’ll be worth it. I heard once that it’s better to be lonely and single than in a relationship and lonely. Nothing is worse than the loneliness that you can feel when you’re in a relationship. Don’t settle!!! Your dream person is out there, and it’s not worth it to waste your time, energy, and heart on someone who won’t value you like they should.