We’re all familiar with the concept of the ‘biological clock,’ an in-built timer possessed by women that drives a desire to settle down and make babies while the chance to do so exists.

But did you know that men similarly have a biological clock – AKA the ‘Single Man’s Wristwatch’? While it’s not as obvious or directly tied to age as is the case with women, there are some key factors that will influence a man’s desire to settle down.

At the heart of this is a man’s ability to materially provide for a family. Without access to adequate resources or a meaningful career, many men will avoid starting a family or even committing to a long-term partner.

However, once he has this capability, an alarm starts to go off on the single man’s wrist watch, and he is far more likely to entertain the thought of finding a love for life. 

But this is not the only factor. Here are the 10 Signs a Man is Ready to Marry, as per Dr George Blair-West:

1. He is working in a job that is a meaningful career for him, and that he sees as his future.
   
   
2. He is not living at home (for some ethnic cultures, this is less of a concern).
   
   
3. He wants to live together (not just to save money).
   
   
4. He is there for you in hard times when you need support.
   
   
5. He talks about, and acts towards, the future on the basis you will be a part of it.
   
   
6. He wants to know the important friends and family in your life, and have you meet his.
   
   
7. You become his plus-one to important events.
   
   
8. He shows an interest in forming a family or, better still, in being a father.
   
   
9. The men he is close to are getting married.
   
   
10. He seems to be less interested in the singles scene.
    

If you’re dating a man like this and you want to keep him – congratulations, he’s primed to marry!

However, if marrying or starting a family is something you’re wanting, and he’s missing some of the key points on the list above, you may have reason to worry.

To make it explicit, here are Dr George’s top 5 reasons a man is not in a marrying mood:

If you’re in such a relationship, and it’s your intention to keep him forever, then be aware that you may be fighting a losing battle. As we say here at Dating for Love, ‘you can’t fall in love with potential,’ and you may be waiting a long time for this potential to become reality – if it ever happens.

It’s worth having a conversation with your partner about this if this is the case. And if you’re out there dating and looking for Mr. Right – remember to return to these lists to get a sense of the relationship potential.

After all, if you’re going to marry or start a family, you really, really want to make sure it’s with a guy who’s ready for such a journey and willing to stay the course.

This article contains excerpts from ‘How to Make the Biggest Decision of Your Life,’ written by Dr George Blair-West and Dating for Love’s own Jiveny Blair-West. You can get yourself a copy of this book here.