Choosing a life mate doesn't have to be a crapshoot. Selecting a Mate [1] offers some basic considerations before you choose someone for the long haul.

Clinical psychlogist Larry Alan Nadig, Ph.D., says choosing a significant other is a major decision with long-term consequences that shouldn't be taken lightly. For a relationship to work [2], you must be honest with yourself and your partner.

Don't be guided by your feelings when making this decision; emotions can be very misleading. Instead, Nadig says to focus on what kind of life you want based upon your needs and values and then choose a partner with similar desires.

It takes a long time to get to know someone, so Nadig says don't commit too soon. Get to know the person's daily habits. Nadig lists suggested similarities that will make for a smoother relationship, and pitfalls to avoid.