No bald allowed

I once had an co-worker who had one hard and fast rule when it came to dating: No bald men. I remember thinking this was going a little far...that while she might prefer haired gents, a cue-ball pate shouldn’t automatically disqualify an otherwise good guy.

But in light of a survey from the U.K. I recently read about, my old cube-mate wasn’t necessarily out of line with her focus on the little things: according to one U.K. news source, 25% of the male survey respondents said they’d dumped a girlfriend because they didn’t like her friends; 25% of female survey participants said they’d called it quits because he didn’t wash his hands after using the loo. (Well, those gals may have a point there.)

Other less-than-earth-shattering reasons for men ending relationships included overly chatty women, shopping, too-short haircuts and stubbly legs. (Note to self: charge the shaver). Women taking the survey also found fault with public displays of flatulence, odiferous feet and incompatibilities regarding toilet seat position.

I have to agree, none of these “issues” are pleasant, but are any really deal-breakers? Of course they could be indicative of deeper, more troubling personality traits--or health problems--but for argument’s sake let’s assume they’re not. Are they really impossible to modify with a gentle, yet direct, maybe even somewhat humorous conversation? (“Honey, I know you’re allergic to dogs but if you keep passing gas in public, we’re going to have to get one so you have someone to blame.”)

For couples finding the gift of love this year, there may be a few presents to toss into your shopping cart if you want to make the relationship work. And no, we’re not talking chocolates or roses. For starters, how about some shaving cream, Odor Eaters® and Beano®? And for those tough cases, there’s always a toupee.