When you think you’re in love or you really really like someone, it might be a little harder to see a situation for what it really is. You want this person in your life, so it becomes a little easier to excuse the questionable things they do in your relationship, like choosing to hang with their friends even though you two already had plans. Maybe you find yourself overthinking when your boyfriend doesn’t text you back right away, and you can’t decide if you actually have one of the good ones — or if they’re just bad at texting.
Whether you and your boyfriend just started dating or you two have been together for months or years, it’s OK to take a step back and check in to see how things are going every once in a while — especially if you’ve noticed some red flags lately. Take this quiz to see if your guy is a good boyfriend or if there are signs you need to break up.
IF YOU ANSWERED MOSTLY WITH THE FIRST COLUMN…
You’ve got the best boyfriend! You deserve a caring, loyal, and all-around great guy, so it’s only appropriate that your boyfriend ranks high on the quality meter. Part of it could be that you’ve communicated your wants and needs to each other, and part of it could be that he’s just a great person overall and you have a strong, loving relationship. Sure, he might mistakes every now and then, but you two immediately address the issue and work through it together. Supportive relationships are the best relationships!
IF YOU ANSWERED MOSTLY WITH THE SECOND COLUMN…
Honestly, your boyfriend’s not the greatest. He seemingly puts himself before you, and sometimes doesn’t think how his decisions are impacting you. While it’s nice to have someone in your life, you have to address the question, “Does he really add to my life in a positive way?” If not, then it’s probably time to walk away from the relationship. If you’re not ready to break up, try giving him one more chance by telling him what you need and seeing if he can give it to you. If not, it’s probably time to split and focus on what’s best for you.
IF YOU ANSWERED EVENLY BETWEEN THE TWO...
Your boyfriend is usually good at saying and doing the right things, but other times, he doesn’t quite get it and maybe acts in a way that disappoints you. If you still want the relationship to work, express your expectations so that you can gauge how serious he is about the ’ship. Ask for what you need, or explain why certain decisions of his hurt your feelings. Either he will step up, or he won’t. If he doesn’t, then his rank on the BF meter will plummet and you might want to re-consider the relationship. You deserve someone who is there for you and cares for you immensely — anything less is not worth your time.
Leah Campano is an Associate Editor at Seventeen, where she covers pop culture, entertainment news, health, and politics. On the weekends, you can probably find her watching marathons of vintage Real Housewives episodes or searching for New York City’s best almond croissants.
