If you are dating or want to date a cop, you need to understand the demands and challenges that come with them being a cop.
Being a cop is not a normal job, not by any stretch.
They are typically looking for different things in a relationship from a regular civilian, but meeting those things can result in an exceptional bond.
Here is what a cop is looking for in a relationship and how you can impress or make a cop fall for you:
What a Cop Is Looking For in a Relationship?
Keep in mind that everyone is an individual, cop or not, but generally speaking, here are some of the things cops look for in a relationship:
Someone Who Is Flexible and Committed
There is a saying; ‘A cop’s job is not 9 to 5, it is 24/7.’
This might not apply to all cops in the sense that they’re on call 24/7, but it’s still a job that they take everywhere with them.
They might not be able to go out on a date or spend time with you as often as a regular person, so it’s important that their partner is flexible and understanding.
Additionally, due to the dangers of their job, they will need someone who is committed to them and the relationship.
Cops have a tough exterior, but they often have big hearts and need a strong emotional connection with their partners to help deal with the pressures of their job.
Someone Who Is OK with Coming Second to Their Job
This ties in with the last point, but it’s worth mentioning separately.
Cops often have to put their job before everything else, and this is something that a lot of partners, especially long-term partners, are not OK with.
If you want to date a cop, you need to be accepting that their job will come first at times and you have to take a back seat.
This doesn’t mean that they don’t care about you, it’s just the nature of their job.
They may get called out at short notice, work long shifts, and not come home on time, but they’re serving the community.
Someone Who Helps Them Escape when They’re Off Duty
Like with any high-pressure job, being able to switch off when they’re off duty comes as a huge relief and helps their mental health.
The more you can do to take their mind off work when they’re off duty, the better it is for most cops.
Activities like going for hikes or walks together, watching a movie, or just sitting and talking can help cops relax and de-stress.
So, if you’re the kind of person who’s willing to do things to help a cop take their mind off of their job, this is going to be desirable to them.
Someone Who Gets What It Means to Be in Law Enforcement
While helping a cop take their mind off of work is a big deal, it’s also important that you’re able to understand what it means to be a cop.
One of the best ways to do this is to connect with other spouses and partners of cops and get to know their colleagues.
There are also groups and communities for the partners of cops due to how important this is.
Someone Who Is a Good Listener
Being a good listener is crucial in any relationship, but is even more important when dating a cop.
Cops often need to talk about their job, both the good and the bad, in order to process and deal with what’s happened – and they’ll lean on their partners.
If you’re not a good listener or are not willing to listen, this is going to be a big problem for most cops.
It’s been proven that if a cop or anyone else in a high-stress and traumatic job bottles up their feelings it has a negative impact on their long-term mental health.
So, being there for them is not just a way to relieve daily stress, it has a very real and lasting impact.
Someone Who Loves Them Unconditionally
This is what we’re all after, right?
Someone who loves us unconditionally and is there for us no matter what.
Cops often have a tough time finding this because of the job they do.
They see the worst of humanity (and the best) at times, and this takes its toll.
Additionally, they often put their lives on the line for others, and this can be a big burden for their partner.
So, if you’re looking to date a cop, know that they need someone who loves them unconditionally and is there for them no matter what.
I’m sure you’ll get the same back in return when you meet the right man or woman, and that’s a beautiful thing.
Related – 10 things to be aware of when dating a police officer.
Why Do So Many Cops Date Other Cops?
If you’ve ever wondered why so many cops date other cops, this is a big part of it.
They understand the job and what it means, and they can offer support that non-cops simply cannot.
Additionally, they often have a similar lifestyle which makes things easier.
Essentially, the best fit for someone who checks all the above boxes as to what a cop looks for in a relationship is another cop!
For that reason, it’s common for cops to date other cops.
Of course, this isn’t the only reason and there are plenty of wonderful non-cop partners out there, but it’s a big part of it.
No matter what your job is, if the person you like or love is a cop and you’re willing to put in the effort, I’m sure the two of you will have a happy and fulfilling relationship!
Image credits – depositphotos.com/free-stock-photo-thoughtful-policeman-sitting-kitchen-table
Phil lives in England, UK, and has around 20 years experience as a professional life, career and executive coach. He started this blog to help others find and define their own self development journey. Blogging about a wide range of topics to help facilitate a better future.