Will your relationship stand the test of time? You have been dating in London for a while and you’ve finally found someone who you really like. But is he the real deal, or is he just using you? Answer these seven questions to give you a better idea of whether to get serious or whether to move on.

1) Is he secretive?

Does he voluntarily offer up information about what he is up to, or does he seem to live a double life? If he is acting shady then the chances are he has got something to hide. Being in a relationship is all about honesty, so if there are secrets from the word go then it will be doomed for failure.

2) Do you feel valued as a person?

Or do you feel like everything is done for his personal gain? Relationships are all about putting your partners needs ahead of your own and finding compromise. If you seem to do everything for him but get very little in return, then this will not result in a healthy relationship.

3) Does he try to fit into your life?

Has he made an effort to meet your friends and family? Does he ask you questions about your work and attend events with you where he may not know anybody? If the answer is yes, then it is likely that he is interested in sticking around. However, if he makes no effort to fit into your life and get to know the people who are close to you, then your relationship wont have much longevity.

4) Does your relationship revolve around sex?

Is he interested in hanging out with you and doing non-sexual activities? Sex is important in a relationship, but it is also vital that you enjoy quality time together outside the bedroom. If he only ever contacts you for sex then your relationship is not going to stand the test of time.

5) Can you be yourself around him?

Are you able to relax and completely be yourself in his company? If you find yourself creating a different persona to keep him interested, then you are probably not as compatible as you would like to think. It is impossible to keep up a façade long-term, so if you feel like you are pretending to be someone youre not around him, then the relationship will eventually break down. Make sure you are 100% comfortable in his company, and vice versa, before entering into a relationship.

6. Do you feel happy around him?

Happiness and attraction are two very different things. Whilst the initial excitement will fade after time, someone that truly makes you feel happy will continue to do so long after the honeymoon period is over. If he makes you feel confident and good about yourself, then he’s a keeper. If you feel worthless and down after spending time with him, then he’s better off forgotten.

7. Does he encourage you?

Encouragement from loved ones is essential in order for us to be motivated in life. If he never offers you any encouragement then you will end up feeling discouraged and even isolated. A good boyfriend will cheer you along even when things are going badly. If he is more interested in his own goals than yours then he is not a good potential match.