6 Things Couples Must Try Before Getting Married
4 min read“Experts say that these experiences are crucial and prepare you for the long haul”
Marriage is a lifelong commitment, and the decision to get married should not be taken in haste. The dynamics of marriage have changed over the years, and couples now have different priorities and needs, that must be looked into before taken the big step. The couple dated for a few years to get to know each other on a deeper level, which is the right thing to do to test compatibility, both physical and mental.
If you have found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with or want to test if the person is right for you, here are a few things you must try out together as a couple before you decide to say “I do”.
1. Have a big argument
This is the most important box to tick. How your partner responds and reacts to disagreements can make or break a relationship. While arguments are unpleasant, they are necessary to air things and can make the bond stronger. Is your partner respectful, understanding, and open to criticism during an argument? Do they shut down, blame, attack, and get verbally and physically abusive? Marriage with a person who refuses to move past an argument can be frustrating and unfulfilling.
2. Meet the parents
You must have heard the phrase “You do not just marry the man, you marry his family”. Your spouse’s family will be a huge part of your life, and it will be to your advantage to get on their good books. Learning about their family and the values he or she grew up with will help you understand your partner much better.
3. Go on a trip together
Traveling together is a great way to strengthen your bond with your partner while making beautiful memories. Is your partner adventurous, lives in the moment, and energetic, or are they boring, lazy and scared to take risks? Go on a holiday together to find out. A trip together will reveal how your partner deals with a stressful situation and if they are reliable, dependable, and exciting.
4. Live together
Loving your partner is easy when you stay apart and see each other just over lunch or for a movie date, but what happens if you start living with them? Living in is a great option to test your compatibility with your partner. You will not only learn about their daily routine and habits but also figure out how tolerant you are towards each other. When you live together you become more adjusting, accommodating, and respectful towards each other and learn to build healthy boundaries whilst working on your physical intimacy and interpersonal and communication skills.
5. Get a pet together
Before you start discussing children, start small and raise a pet together. Get a dog or a cat and take equal responsibility when it comes to their food, medication, clean up, and general well-being. Raising a pet can be as stressful and demanding as raising kids and this will equip you for future responsibilities.
6. Make a budget and discuss finances
Financial stress is a major cause of marriage breakdowns. When it comes to wedding planning, make sure you define the budget based on the financial standing of both the families. If you are, living together, and both of you are employed, make a clear monthly budget and decide who will pay for what. Before you get married, you must ensure that your partner is not wasteful and knows how to stick to the budget. This does not mean marry someone stingy, you can have fun and those occasional splurges, but within the limit.