I've often thought a relationship, like any significant investment, is subject to approval.
Whether that's approval from third parties or the investors themselves, no relationship can grow without the appropriate checks and balances.
Even 'applying' for a relationship is a complex matter, because it's a two-part process. It starts with Part A: The checklist.
This can be as long as your arm, depending on your fastidiousness. Is she intelligent? Check. Does he like rock climbing? Check. Is she into cars? Does he have a car?
The less discerning may complete Part A quite quickly: Is he available? Check. And for the downright desperate: Is she breathing? Ultimately, you determine the pass rate.
So far, so good. But then there's Part B. And Part B has only one checkbox: Do you have chemistry?
Sometimes the application process can take months, with approval pending. But if the interest rate is low, and you can't complete Part B – application denied.
I verified my theory quite recently. Keen to invest, I ticked away at Part A with Lisa Simpson-like enthusiasm. With the first form filled out and ready to post, I sat with pen poised to complete Part B.
But the box remains unchecked; the form, a little smudged, is back on the fridge.
I know that investing in the long term involves riding out the bumps and sticking to the plan. In the end my big return may never arrive...but my life balance is healthy, so it's worth the risk.
