I had two major relationships (marriage). The first - settling. The second was what I was waiting for. I waited so many years till he came along. It made my life worthwhile. Back to the first: disaster. I never should have entered into it. As far as making things work, you always have to do that. But it's a lot easier with the right person.
I think a good relationship is preferable to being always searching for someone 'better'....really get to know someone as a friend and see where it leads.
Pobodys nerfect. All relationships require work, none are perfect.