So, you’ve been dropping hints heavier than your Sephora shopping cart, subtly leaving Pinterest boards open on his laptop, and dodging family questions about when he’s finally going to pop the question. (Seriously, Aunt Karen, let’s talk about your love life for once.) But before you start practicing your best “OMG, I had NO idea!” face, there’s one tiny, inconvenient detail to consider, are you actually compatible?
Because let’s be real, choosing your life partner is a little more important than picking the perfect wedding hashtag. (Even though, yes, #HappilyEverHenderson is adorable.) So, before you start practicing your new signature, here are 10 creative, slightly devious, and 100% necessary ways to test your compatibility before saying “yes.”
1. The Netflix Test
How long does it take for you both to pick something to watch? If it’s longer than the actual runtime of a movie, that’s a red flag. Bonus points if he doesn’t flinch when you suggest rewatching Gilmore Girls for the millionth time.
2. The Road Trip Simulation
Take a long drive together. If he drives in total silence or insists on listening to only one genre of music (cough EDM for four hours straight cough), reconsider. Also, how does he handle it when you “accidentally” miss the exit because you were busy explaining the Bridgerton plotline?
3. The Target Run Experiment
Take him to Target. Does he let you roam every aisle without sighing dramatically? Does he support your need to buy yet another seasonal throw pillow? Or, even better, does he wander off and come back with snacks and candles? If yes, he’s a keeper.
4. The Group Chat Test
Does he make a solid impression in your besties’ group chat? Are they sending heart-eye emojis or side-eye emojis? Because trust me, if the group chat isn’t on board, there’s trouble ahead.
5. The Instagram Caption Check
Suggest taking a cute couple’s pic and see how he reacts. If he immediately suggests a cringey caption like “She said yes… to dessert first!”, run. You deserve better.
6. The “Meet My Mom” Drill
Casually observe how he reacts when you say, “My mom wants to FaceTime.” If he suddenly develops a mysterious case of can’t-find-my-phone-itis, he might not be ready for the full in-law experience.
7. The Restaurant Order Analysis
How does he react when your food arrives wrong? Does he gently handle it like an adult, or does he throw a Karen-style fit at the waiter? A calm, “Hey, I actually ordered the chicken,” > A full-blown meltdown over extra pickles.
8. The Future Talk Drop-In
Casually mention something about the future, like, “Wouldn’t it be cute if we had a dog named Waffles?” If he stiffens like he’s been hit with a taser, it might be time to reevaluate.
9. The Chore Compatibility Test
Live together yet? If not, spend a weekend pretending you do. Who does the dishes? Does he actually know how to fold a fitted sheet, or does he ball it up like a gremlin? These are important questions.
10. The “One Tiny Annoying Habit” Assessment
Find one small thing about him that low-key bugs you and imagine dealing with it forever. Like, does he slurp his coffee like it’s a performance piece? Does he respond to your long texts with just “k”? If you can’t handle it now, imagine it in 10 years.
Final Thoughts: Read the Fine Print
Look, no relationship is perfect (unless you’re Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively, in which case, congrats!). But before you say “yes” just because the proposal is Instagram-worthy, make sure you actually enjoy living in the same reality show together.
Now, spill the tea, what’s the weirdest compatibility test you’ve done with your partner? Drop it in the comments so we can all take notes (or have a laugh)!