10 Signs You’ve Got a Good Boyfriend

Men aren’t always the sharpest tool in the shed; we’re clumsy physically and verbally, we aren’t always on our best behavior, and there’s a good chance you still like us at least a little bit. Whether you’re considering making things official or you’ve already got a guy to call your own, you may find yourself wondering if he’s the right one. He may not be perfect, but here are 10 things guys do that make them good boyfriends.

10. He Holds Your Hand in Public

Not all men are fans of PDA, and it’s usually measured on a spectrum — some men prefer modesty, while others will bite your booty meat while you’re at the mall. Either way, there’s something to be said about a man that’s comfortable touching you in public and showing people that you’re together. There’s less to be said for those who aren’t, and it should probably end with “I wish you luck though.”

9. He Gets You Flowers

Not just the grocery story variety that’s likely to die by the week’s end, but flowers that show thought and consideration. Getting flowers goes far beyond a dozen roses, as flowers have long held symbolism across many cultures. For example, in Ghanian culture, Daffodils signify rebirth and are great for those making a life change. Flowers can be for more than birthdays, and they do more than just look pretty. Either way, his ability to find a gift that has more value in meaning than money shows he’s learning you.

8. He Can Cook for You

Countless women will agree, there’s nothing more attractive than a man that can cook. Be mindful of his repertoire on the range, because this will speak to his life experience. If he’s still hoping to impress you with chicken alfredo, he’s got some growing to do. He doesn’t have to be a culinary school graduate, but hopefully he can expand your palate. More important, it shows that he’s willing and able to share household responsibilities, and isn’t expecting you to be his personal chef all the time.

7. He Reminds You You’re Beautiful

You probably have DMs full of guys telling you how beautiful you look in your latest post, and there might even be that one creeper that’s putting hearts on your selfies from six months ago, but how often does your man remind you that you’re the baddest? You’d be surprised how quickly men get comfortable and yours might have forgotten that he’s got a baddie on his hands. If he can’t hype you up, he might be slackin’ on you — is that the energy you signed up for?

6. He Checks on You When You’re Apart

When it comes to relationships, out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind. When either of you are traveling, if he’s solid boyfriend material, he’ll still check on you — whether that be making sure arrival went smoothly, asking how things are going, or just talking about the day’s events. Knowing that you’re still on his mind is important to creating a certain level of security within the relationship, if it’s going to be a lasting one.

5. He Plans Date Nights

It’s all too easy for a relationship to fall into the trappings of the mundane when it’s not properly nurtured. If he’s a good boyfriend, he’ll keep the flame strong by planning proper date nights to get you both out of the house. Granted, watching your favorite shows together can count as a date (have you tried “See” on Apple TV?!), but that’s not the same as him giving you a reason to get dressed up and live in your youth — trust me, you’ll appreciate being able to look back at the years having gotten to experience the pomp and circumstance a few times. And if he’s a good man, he’ll make those opportunities happen, and he’ll be there to enjoy them with you.

4. He’s Happy to Hang With Your Friends

If he’s down to hang out with your — probably annoying — friends, then he’s a keeper. He knows that your friends are the family you choose, and to some extent you’re a package deal. And it’s important for them to get a chance to scope him out. How does he behave around a group of women? Is he mature and protective, or is he sending not-so-subtle hints about which of your friends he’d want to have a threesome with?

3. He Includes You With His Friends

This one’s a test on both of you. Whether or not you can pass the vibe check is critical to a lasting relationship, but if he leaves you out when it’s time to have fun with the crew, it’s probably a bad sign. Working you into the friend group is a strong way to make you feel included and accepted and not hidden. But you still have to earn their approval. His close friends know him well, and they’ll be able to tell if you bring out the best in him or if you’re locking down the lion they know him to be.

2. He’s There for the Hard Times

Now we’re getting down to the nitty. There’s nothing worse than facing tough times solo — especially when you have a partner who should be by your side in trying times. Can you count on him to be there when you need him most? More to the point, when times get tough, do you have to ask for his support or does he hold you down from his own initiative? If you’re entertaining more than one man, then frame it like this: If you were met with tragedy tomorrow, which one of them would you want by your side, and which one would actually be there?

1. He Goes to Family Events With You

This is where the boys are separated from the men. A guy that shows that he cares about your family shows that he cares about you. A man that shows interest in not only meeting your family, but continuing to see your family is planning on being in your life for the long run. Like the saying goes, “when you marry the individual, you marry the whole family.” If he’s not too keen on your family, he’s likely not the best boyfriend you could land — assuming your family isn’t horrible. But again, whether you’re entertaining multiple men or just on the fence about giving one a chance, frame it like this: When it’s time for the family to come together, who puts in effort to be included, and would you actually want your family to meet him?

BONUS: He Says “I Love You”

Simply put, if he can’t say he loves you, he aint the one — simple as that. Regardless of when, where, or who’s around, if he can say those three words with confidence, you’ve got a man on your hands.