What not to do when you want your man to commit

Men can be rather stubborn creatures. Have you ever tried to get a man to do something he really doesn't want to do? More often than not, he will refuse point blank and the more you try to push him, the less likely he is to do it. If you are trying to get your man to commit, you will need to tread very carefully. The unfortunate truth is, you may never get your way. However, if you want a better chance at a happily ever after, you must avoid these things which are sure to send him running for the hills.

Pushing your luck

In the beginning, your man might be open to having a serious conversation about your future. If he agrees to it, have the conversation then let it drop. You may not hear what you want to hear, but his feelings won't change if you keep asking every day. Sometimes, all a man needs is a little more time. Persistent nagging will give the impression that this is how the rest of his life spent with you would be. Don't lessen your chances of having a future with him by pushing too hard.

Leaving wedding magazines/apartment listings strewn around

When you know your boyfriend is coming over, having a few bridal magazines on the coffee table is not a smart idea. I used to know someone who was desperate to get married to her boyfriend, and she attempted this trick once. The only thing it achieved was starting an almighty row about how she was forcing an issue he didn't want to discuss. The same goes for apartment listings. Your partner will quickly see your tactics for what they are and he will either pretend not to notice, or it will cause an argument.

Trying to make him jealous

If you want your man to commit, flirting with other guys is a big mistake. In your mind, you think you are making him jealous and showing him what he would be missing if he lost you. The reality is, it makes him question why he should commit when you are busy showing what you've got to other men. I speak from experience when I say that this "trick" never works.

"Accidental" pregnancy

Many women have attempted to trap a man into marriage by "accidentally" getting pregnant. One of the most common ways of doing this is to lie about having taken the contraceptive pill. Other ways are far more devious, but the end result never really changes. If a man doesn't want to settle down with you, having his baby won't make a difference. Even if he makes an effort for a while, if his heart isn't in it, he probably won't stay forever.

Offering an ultimatum

Remember how I said men are stubborn? Well, giving your guy an ultimatum to commit or break up is simply giving him the opportunity to put his stubbornness into action. Even if he doesn't want to break up, he will usually prefer that option to being forced into living together or getting married when he isn't ready. Look at it from his point of view. Would you want to be with someone who issued threats to get their own way?

Men will only ever commit when they are ready. You can't rush them or bully them into it. Even if you manage it somehow, the relationship will never be as solid as one that grew naturally. The only way to get him to commit to you is to wait. It's your choice whether or not you are willing to hold on but if you stay, you must be patient.

More from Karen:
Reasons You Shouldn't Have a "Friends With Benefits" Arrangement With an Ex
Reasons You Shouldn't Rush into Marriage
5 Things Women Wish Men Knew