15 signs you’re a better “catch” than you realize (and love can’t be far away)

Here’s the deal. Looks are important. But there are many things the opposite sex appreciates even more. 

I’ll list 15 signs that show you’re a better catch than you realize and that love isn’t far away.

If you have less than half of them, you must keep working on yourself. If you have more than that, you just need to put yourself out there more often and set more hooks in the water. 

1) You have a strong sense of self

Having a lot of confidence is one of the most important things to be seen as a “catch.” If you know who you are, what you want, and what you bring to a relationship, the right partner will appreciate that.

On the other side, this could make it more complicated for you to find “the one.” That’s because you understand your needs, desires, and, most importantly, deal-breakers. 

This self-assuredness helps you make informed choices about the kind of person you’re striving to share your life with.

Overall, having a strong sense of self is very attractive to potential partners because it signifies you’re emotionally mature and stable and have a good foundation for a healthy and balanced relationship.

2) You take care of yourself

Taking good care of yourself is another essential trait that both men and women find important. 

If you prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy lifestyle, you show that you value your well-being and can bring vitality to a relationship.

You won’t be surprised when I tell you that people are more attracted to fit individuals. Several studies have confirmed it too. 

One of the main reasons people go to the gym is because they want to look more attractive, isn’t it?

So, if you take good care of yourself, look relatively fit, and have good grooming routines, you’re a good “catch.” 

3) You prioritize personal growth

Success is connected to intelligence and mental abilities. It signals you’re willing to put in the work and, ultimately, earn more money. 

To be perceived as a “catch,” you have to keep constantly working on improving yourself, whether it’s through education, hobbies, or self-reflection.

You don’t have to be rich, own a business, or have a promising career. Simply working on yourself signals you know what you want from life and are willing to get it. 

This goes hand-in-hand with this next trait. 

4) You have a positive outlook

People who approach life optimistically and maintain a positive attitude are attractive to potential partners.

No one wants a Negative Nelly as a partner. Being all doom and gloom is no fun. 

If you have a dose of playfulness in you and you know how to make the best out of a bad situation, you’re a “catch” in my book. 

5) You have a good sense of humor

The same goes for making others laugh and finding joy in the lighter side of life, making you enjoyable to be around.

Meeting someone with a great sense of humor is like a breath of fresh air. We can imagine our future life together filled with laughter and joy. 

Some studies show that the opposite sex finds a good sense of humor a vital ingredient in romantic attraction.

In this one, 51 pairs of single, heterosexual college students were brought together to investigate the role of humor used by men and humor appreciated by women in romantic attraction. 

The results suggested that when a man made more attempts to be funny, and a woman responded with laughter, the woman was more likely to express romantic interest. 

Conversely, the same pattern didn’t hold true for women who attempted to use humor themselves. 

6) You’re kind and compassionate

There’s still room for compassionate people in this, often ruthless, world. I’d say we appreciate them more than ever. 

You’re compassionate if you genuinely care about others and show empathy toward their feelings and experiences.

If you can put yourself in other people’s shoes and show your sensitive side, the opposite sex will think you’re a “catch.”

According to a study by the University of Iowa, we’re even genetically attracted to compassionate people who we perceive as loving, supportive, and secure.

7) You’re financially responsible

Being financially responsible has many benefits. People often say money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy good healthcare, amazing adventures and experiences, travel abroad, and material things we need to survive and thrive.

I mean, who can refute this?

If you manage your finances well and have a stable foundation, showing that you’re reliable and capable of building a future together, you’re definitely a better “catch” than you think.

But to have a healthy relationship, you also need to have this next trait. 

8) You communicate effectively

Can you express your thoughts and emotions clearly and respectfully? Do you encourage healthy communication in relationships?

If the answer is yes, you have better chances of meeting someone special than most other men and women. 

Being able to talk in a relaxed and interesting manner to people you’re attracted to goes much further than you think.  

No wonder there are so many courses, books, and 1-on-1 sessions where “experts” teach you how to flirt. 

9) You’re a good listener

On the flip side, you also need to genuinely listen to others, take in and value their opinions and make them feel heard and understood.

Being a shoulder to cry on is one step closer to being in a relationship with your person of interest. It turned out great for Jim from The Office, didn’t it? 

All jokes aside, people love talking about themselves, and they love a good listener. If you’re one, you’re already ahead of other self-centered people. 

10) You’re open-minded

Another thing I personally like the most in others is open-mindedness. We often hear this term, but what does it exactly mean? 

It simply means you’re willing to consider different perspectives and embrace diversity, creating a welcoming and accepting environment for love.

Research indicates that open-minded people see the world differently. Because of that, they’re happier, healthier, and more creative.

No wonder open-mindedness is such an attractive trait! 

Are you open-minded?

11) You have a passion for life

Passion. The word itself brings many things to mind, doesn’t it? 

Having a zest for life that can inspire others is something that makes you attractive and a “catch.”

But how does this manifest in real life? It could simply mean you pursue your interests and hobbies with enthusiasm. 

Or that you have a spark in your eyes when you talk about the things that interest you. 

You don’t have to be like Fred Astaire and sing in the rain for people to notice you’re passionate. 

12) You’re reliable

It’s not all about passion. A good “catch” must also be reliable and follow through on their commitments. Being there and showing you can be counted on is essential for building trust in a relationship.

When others need help or support, you are there for them. You offer assistance, guidance, or a listening ear when they need it, demonstrating you can be relied upon in times of need.

13) You’re independent

When we think of someone as independent, we typically think they live alone and are financially stable. 

In today’s world, where rents, real estate, and prices, in general, have skyrocketed, it’s more difficult than ever to be independent. 

But being independent can also simply mean a healthy level of self-reliance and the ability to maintain your own happiness and well-being. This can make you a strong partner, even though you live with your parents or three other roommates.

So, don’t despair if you aren’t entirely independent. A normal person should understand your position.  

14) You’re respectful

Is there something worse than dating a rude and disrespectful person? They’re impolite to the waiters, think they’re the center of the Universe, and treat you like a piece of meat.  

If you’re respectful and treat others with consideration and value their boundaries, you’re creating a safe space for love to thrive.

15) You’re supportive

And lastly, we have being supportive as one of the signs you’re a better ”catch” than you realize. 

An ideal partner will encourage and uplift others in their ambitions. If you’re supportive, you should look for someone who also wants to grow and succeed in life.

You’ll believe in their abilities and potential and offer encouragement and motivation. 

This will inspire them to pursue their goals and dreams, boosting their confidence along the way.

Final thoughts

I believe love isn’t far away for anyone. If you’re willing to take good care of yourself, present a good and confident image, and have some ambition, no one will say you aren’t a “catch.”