We’ve all been there. You’re at a party or event and you meet someone who you immediately feel attracted to. The conversation flows, you feel your heart rate quicken, and you find yourself smiling uncontrollably. You’re experiencing chemistry with someone and it feels amazing.

What’s important to remember, however, is that although that initial spark is very important to get a relationship started, it is not enough (on its own) to keep things going.

It is human nature to seek chemistry in romance. But the trouble comes when the feelings are so overpowering that they make you forget logic and reason. If you want a loving relationship that will not explode in the long-term, it’s vital to invite your rational brain along for the ride and make sure that you also have compatibility with the person you’re considering dating. Here are some thoughts to keep in mind:

• By no means ignore people who excite you. If someone catches your eye, pay attention and don’t feel afraid to engage.
• But make sure you’re armed with a No-No List that can be used to help you evaluate everything about this person, not just the things that please you.
• Watch for red flags that match your list and could be indicators that the person you’re feeling chemistry for is, in fact, not a good match.

Chemistry can lead to true love, but there is much more to it than that, and a No-No List will help you dig deeper to find all the other things you truly need.

For more information on how to determine compatibility in a potential partner, be sure to order a copy of my book, The No-No List.