To The Men Who Try To Date Me: 7 Ways My Dad Has Made Your Life More Difficult

I've always felt that my expectations for men are so high because my dad is just so amazing- the men of the world have a lot to live up to.

1. He showed me how a woman deserves to be treated

Whether observing the ways he treats my mom like a queen, or the general respect he has for women, my dad has taught me to accept nothing less than love, affection, and admiration from a man.

2. He is a Real-Life Prince Charming

No matter how many people tell me Prince Charming is only in fairytales, I beg to differ. Chivalry is not dead. Romantic gestures will never go out of style. My dad has shown me that it is possible for a man to have it all and still love unconditionally. I won’t settle.

3. He Makes Love Fun

From spontaneous gestures of affection to spray-painting a giant heart in the snow outside the bedroom window on Valentine’s Day. He has fun coming up with new ways to remind my mom, my sister, and I of his love for us. He never runs out of clever ideas.

4. He Is Incredibly Thoughtful

My mom mentions we are running low on milk and suddenly my dad disappears, returning fifteen minutes later with a gallon of milk and a Dunkin Donuts coffee for my mom. He constantly goes above and beyond. His incredible selflessness has shown me that true love means occasionally putting other’s desires before your own.

5. He Taught Me To Fight My Own Battles

I can jump my own car, move my own furniture, and make my own decisions. I will not become trapped in a relationship because of an inability to do things for myself. My dad taught me not to fear challenges, but to use them as opportunities to prove my independence.

6. He Made Me Strong

For a long time I considered myself ‘damaged goods’, not worthy of the love someone like my dad has to offer. In the face of fear, my dad has challenged me to push my own limits. By constantly affirming my abilities, highlighting my strengths, and taking pride in my accomplishments, he has reminded me what I am capable of.

7. He Loved Me First

And he has loved me unconditionally since. The love my father has for me, for my sister, and for my mother is my picture of true love and that’s what I expect from you.