The Most Underrated Quality in the Dating World

by KATHERINE SCHREIBER

''Based on a quick glance at magazine covers, it seems like there are certain qualities everyone's looking for in a mate. Nail the perfect combo of good looks, quick wit, and career success, and you've got the perfect formula for attracting a partner, right?

Well, it's partly true: Researchshows these aspects (physical appearance, humor, and ambition) are certainly attractive to potential romantic partners. But it turns out, a bit of benevolence may be what your dating game’s missing. One large-scale studyfound that more than 10,000 men and women from around the globe consider kindness—yes, kindness—to be one of the most important qualities in a romantic partner.

Here’s why your reflection, your paycheck, and where you stand in the social pecking order can’t hold a candle to the quality of your character...''