If it has been years since you and your partner started dating, do you think it’s time to take your relationship to the next level? Entering marriage is a life-long commitment. Hence, you and your partner should work and decide if you already see each other together forever.
Before you plan your engagement proposal and pop the question, check the following signs.
Are you and your partner prepared for marriage?
1. Readiness to commit and being comfortable with each other
As mentioned, marriage is a life-long commitment. If you both already see yourself ready to commit and comfortable with each other, it is a good sign that you can finally enter the next chapter of your relationship.
Did you know 75 percent of married couples divorce due to lack of commitment? Hence, both you and your partner must be on the same page and agree on many terms before you jump into marriage.
As you work out your commitment, you can also boost how you find comfort with each other. To know how comfortable you are with each other, you can try to answer these questions:
- Do you both act severely and silly with each other?
- Are you relaxed, and can you work yourself if you are with your partner?
- Can you both discuss your relationship’s most challenging or awkward conversations?
Answering “yes” to all these questions implies that you are comfortable with each other’s presence and further convince yourself that your current partner is the one you want to commit to for the rest of your life.
2. Financial transparency and stability
Money disagreements are one of the most common reasons why couples fight. However, if you and your partner can openly discuss your financial status and capabilities, that’s a great sign of a mature relationship. As a couple, you and your partner must have better teamwork when managing your finances, especially if discussing wedding plans, future homes, investments, raising kids, etc.
Also, you and your partner should be financially stable before you take your relationship to the next level. If you have a steady income, start saving together for your plans. Or if the other one is struggling to make ends meet, you can use that opportunity to support and help your partner find a stable career first or pursue their goals.
3. Acceptance of both parties’ family and friends
The people around you can see what you cannot see in your partner, especially the negative stuff. So if your family and closest friends approve of your relationship, get along, and do not have anything wrong to say, consider it a positive sign.
Remember that getting married to your partner means you also need to commit to their loved ones. You don’t always need to please every family member or friend, but always show respect since those people are also a part of your partner’s life.
4. Learn each other’s deal breakers and essentials
One of the secrets of a long-term relationship is knowing and understanding each other’s needs and deal breakers. That way, you avoid having arguments and misunderstandings most of the time.
Almost 58 percent of married couples may divorce because of disagreements and conflicts. So if you do not understand what can trigger your partner, it is better to discuss it beforehand and come to terms with how you will deal with it as you marry.
5. Share similar values and goals
Sharing similar values and goals is also an excellent consideration to confirm if you are both ready for marriage. Though some couples also succeed in their relationship despite the differences, both partners should have a common ground or agreement regarding personal beliefs and long-term goals. Similarities in values and goals can lessen potential conflicts as you embark on married life.
6. Acceptance of each other’s personalities
When you live with your partner, you will notice their odd personalities and behaviors that may seem off to you. But do not try to change them into something in line with your preference alone, especially if that aspect of your partner truly won’t harm the relationship. Of course, if there are any bad habits you think your partner has, you can try to talk about them.
Acceptance is also an essential ingredient to a long-lasting marriage. So before you propose or say yes to the proposal, ensure you understand 100 percent the kind of person you want to spend your life with.
7. Treat each other as life-long best friends
You and your partner should treat each other as best friends, which means there’s no one you will run to first when things get rough but your partner alone. Like best friends, you should trust and rely on each other aside from the love that you express.
Are you ready for marriage?
So do you think you are ready for marriage? Before asking “Will you marry me?” or answering “Yes,” ensure you both are 100 percent prepared for a new chapter in life. Marriage is not just about love and passion. Getting married also involves communication, trust, respect, and acceptance if you want a healthy, lifelong relationship.
