Recipe for a good relationship

Since I've been an adult, I've gone through many different phases of my own life and encountered people from all walks of life, but one thing that has struck me as odd is that it seems like no matter what the situation is, the nice guys finish last.

I don't know what it is with women and the "bad boy" image, but they really seem to prefer that over maturity. I've seen many of my female friends go on and on about how they want a man that will treat them right or that can do XYZ, but they're always the ones settling for the guy who ends up being nothing like what they "wanted." What is causing this communication breakdown between the heart and the brain? I think that we should all be more open-minded and willing to give people chances.

Ultimately, I really just want to say to women, "hold higher standards." You have the power to control how men act and behave. Don't be complacent. Expect a man to hold the door for you, to be a gentleman. If women demanded a higher level of respect then men would have no choice but to step their game up. But there are two sides to this, meaning women have to step their game up as well.

If women want men who will treat them well, then they should also embody the qualities that men look for. Not in the provocative sense, but just in general. Most men are easy to please on many basic levels, but let's be honest; many men are also willing to settle to fulfill basic urges as well. Now I'm not saying let's go back to the old days where all a woman did was cook and clean by any means. I love a woman who's doing something with her life, and that drives me to be just as successful, if not more.

I have friends who are great guys - they know how to cook, they dress well, etc. - but women never give them the time of day, or worse, put them in the dreaded "friend zone" never to return. Then they turn right around and get with the guy who is really popular or has more physical qualities than mental. Granted, I understand that everyone wants their significant other to be a piece of eye candy, but looks only last so long.

Women often want men to be the perfect package, but don't hold themselves to the same standards. I can't speak for everyone, but I know that when it comes to a relationship, you really need a good resume under your belt to make you a prime choice for a long-term candidate. You should be able to cook, clean, organize and, most importantly, have goals for yourself; If you don't know where you're going you probably won't go far.