The dating game is a social and primal sport played among all humans; it has many rules, both implied and unspoken. There are some traits and qualities that men and women both look for, and quite a few that turn them away as well. Above all, there are some things we all look for whether we are actually aware of them or not.

Let's say you're on a date with a very attractive person; they're kind, funny, and they can hold an intelligent conversation. The evening is going well until they tell you that their parents still do their laundry, they aren't working, they don't know how to cook, they can't change a tire, and they're still "figuring it out" when it comes to their career and life path.

Turned off? We all are.

Independence is one of the most attractive qualities a person can have. A person who is going places in life, a person who has a career and a plan for themselves, a person who does their own laundry and even knows how to remove a wine stain from a dress shirt...all of these are examples of qualities that we naturally find desirable.

Being your own person and not always relying on someone else for everything is important, but not only in dating, it is important for your own growth. You should be taking the steps toward adulthood in every aspect: assuming responsibility for your actions, forming meaningful and honest relationships, being punctual, learning life skills, pursuing a career, and beginning to learn everything else that comes along with "adulting". These steps may feel terrifying at first, but they will pay off.