Boyfriends can be the best thing to happen to you or the worst. If you are in a good and loving relationship, then it can help shape you and make life more fun. It is never good to be in a one-sided or abusive relationship. These signs will let you know what to look out for whether you are in a long term relationship or if you are just starting off dating someone!

1. He Willingly Sits on the Boyfriend Bench

The boyfriend bench—you all know what i'm referring to. The Bench or chair that is in nearly every clothing, shoe, or accessory store. This means he doesn't mind waiting on you to look for whatever you need (or want).

2. Your Parents Like Him

No matter what age you are, you still want your family's stamp of approval on your new guy.

3. Your Best Friend Likes Him

Chances are your BFF and your BF are going to be spending plenty of time together being around you. If she doesn't like him or he seems to not treat you the right way, she will definitely tell you.

4. He Randomly Brings You Flowers

I love getting flowers on anniversaries and birthdays, but sometimes its nice to get them just because he felt like getting them for you.

5. He Remembers the Important Things

Maybe he doesn't remember the exact day you met, or he forgets an anniversary ever once and a while, but he remembers you favorite color. He remembers what kind of chocolate to bring you when you are having a bad day. He remembers the first time he ever saw you when he thought, "Wow, I really want to date this girl." He remembers your favorite foods and your favorite genre of movies. He remembers what ultimately is more important.

6. He Will Watch Rom Coms With You

He may not like it, but he will watch cheesy chick flicks because you want to watch it.

7. Your Pet Likes Him

Animals know who is a good person and who isn't (you know that this statement is true). If your dog, cat, or bunny does not like him then he is not good for you. My cat who literally hates everyone likes my bf. I thought it was impossible for her to like anyone other than me, but it happened.

8. He Loves Surprising You

Whether it is a quick lunch in between class or at work or it's a fancy date, he loves to make you happy. In a long distance relationship, I can tell you from personal experience, driving or flying to surprise your GF in another city is one of the best gift you can give her.

9. He Loves Introducing You to His Friends and Family

He loves showing you off to everyone he knows. He wants all of his friends and family to know that you are with him and how wonderful you are.

10. He is There for You in the Hard Times

Whenever you are having a serious problem, whether it is health related or emotionally related, he is there for you. He doesn't run away from your problems, but helps you to better understand them. He doesn't get mad at you for how anxious you can be or if you are self-conscious in any way. He isn't scared of your issues.

11. He Helps You Be a Better You

He encourages you to follow your dreams and he doesn't put you down for what you think or want to happen. He helps you realize your individuality and helps you to grow as a person. This does not mean that you need a man to be a better person, but that he helps you to see that you can still be an individual and in a relationship.