Down-to-Earth Romantic

How this stage loves

You understand both the fun of love and the value of your own life. You want to see the person you like, but you won’t give up work, friends or time alone either. You put your feelings into words and respect their pace, so even after an argument, you can talk your way back. You rush in on butterflies less often now, but in exchange you’ve learned to really look at someone before you choose. People tend to call you “stable,” and sometimes you secretly wish for a little more excitement. When you want to grow a relationship that stays warm for the long haul, this is the most dependable take on love of all.

Sound familiar?

• ✓You plan dates around both your days off, without forcing anything
• ✓After an argument, you can give it time and then bring it up yourself
• ✓“We click” matters to you as much as “I like them”

Love quirks

You’re so good at balancing that your own feelings tend to come last. Words you swallowed because “I’m an adult” can linger a little afterward.

Other stages

• Love mental age 13–15After-School Crush Days
• Love mental age 16–19Full-Throttle Teen Love
• Love mental age 20–26In Love with Love
• Love mental age 27–35Down-to-Earth Romantic
• Love mental age 36–49Cozy Couch Era
• Love mental age 50–64Been There, Loved That
• Love mental age 65–88Front-Porch Love Guru