How to Love an Imperfect Man

Sometimes the man you thought was Mr. Right can seem like Mr. Almost Right or Mr. Right As Long As I've Had a Few Cocktails, or worse, Mr. Was Right 10 Years Ago. Let's face it--no man is perfect and eventually the butterflies and googly eyes wear off. Instead of throwing in the towel, follow these steps to figure out how to love an imperfect man.

Instructions

1. Think back to what attracted you to him in the first place. There had to have been something--his eyes, his determination or his ability to connect with children.

2. Pinpoint the positive attributes that you may have been overlooking all this time. His friends, family or co-workers probably have some nicknames or funny stories they love to tell that could shed some light on this.

3. Remember the quote from Leo Buscaglia, "Find the person who will love you because of your differences and not in spite of them and you have found a lover for life." You aren't perfect either, but chances are your man loves you just the same. Opposites really do attract, so try to play up the differences rather than dwell on them as deal breakers.

4. Take into account all the peripheral perks of being with him. Maybe it's his charming family or his awesome group of friends. Perhaps he has a great job that allows him--and you--to travel to cool locations. Or, if you're really digging, it might be that fluffy mutt that you've come to love as your own.

5. Maintain a sense of humor. So he's the world's worst cook, yet he thinks he's the next Food Network Star. Jokingly tease him about his little flaws and pair it up with some self-directed taunting to balance out the scales. You obviously don't want to hurt his feelings, but keeping some comic banter around is healthy for a relationship.

6. Know when to get out. Certain imperfections should be automatic deal breakers, unless you are seeking professional counseling--together--to resolve them. Sometimes no matter how hard you try to love an imperfect man, it really is best to get out of the relationship and cut your losses.

7. Rediscover yourself as an independent person. Depending on your partner for satisfaction and happiness in life is going to set you up for disappointment. Create your own goals, hobbies, interests and friends, along with those that you share together.

Tips & Warnings

• Try your best to love him, but in the end, you definitely don't want to settle for less than you deserve.