Before you start searching for a place to call home with your partner, you may want to rethink a few issues. You need to make several adjustments before moving in with your partner. Most marriage counselors link marital issues such as unfaithfulness to indecision before committing to each other at the beginning of a relationship. Considering the risks involved, here is a list of things to pay attention to before your big move.
1. Money Talk
The financial talk is probably the most delicate issue in a relationship. Pay attention to the financial gap between you and your partner as it helps to make an upfront personal decision on how much you are willing to contribute to the relationship. This also keeps you aware of what you can afford prior to having the talk.
Discuss the percentage you will be contributing to the bills and agree on the responsibilities. Approach any disagreements neutrally and be sure to emerge with a clear middle ground so as to avoid any resentment in the future.
2. Make the Most of Your Dating time
There’s been a fuss for quite some time about the optimum dating time before moving in with your partner. The reality is that unraveling a person’s character can be a very daunting task. It’s important to start small and use the time you spend with your partner to pick up the signs.
A nice way to learn your partner’s living habits is through considerably long visits that mock up the life you intend to live. Ensure you are open about your lifestyle when it’s your turn to host your partner. Keep a close check on your oral and overall health as this is a common cause of early disenchantment in relationships.
3. Brace for the Uncertain Future
No matter how honest you and your partner are to each other, there is an equal threat of unforeseen misfortunes. Remaining positive and supportive during such times can prove challenging in poorly founded relationships. Your partner’s financial situation may suddenly change or their family might turn out to be different from what you expected.
Whatever life throws at you, this is a chance to experience how your partner deals with stressful situations while cultivating a bond of trust.
4. Express Yourself Openly
In discussions that require your backing, it’s vital to speak your mind openly. Make your decisions, preferences or any other relevant feedback as clear as possible even if they appear to offend your partner. At this stage, you’re looking for the attributes that make you most comfortable about your future spouse. For instance, if your partner never compromises and always forces their decisions on you, there’s a high chance you are set for a difficult relationship.
In every relationship, a second opinion is the first form of companionship. For instance, you may want to know how your new hairstyle looks to him or he may ask about what tie color perfectly matches his suit. Getting stuck with a person whom you can barely discuss such simple things is a red flag.
5. Stay Independent
This is especially directed to ladies whose spouses are significantly wealthy. You might be tempted to leave your life behind and jump headfirst into your spouse’s lifestyle. This is a common mistake that leads to boredom during the relationship, hence resulting in serious cases of depression when it finally crumbles.
Maintain your friends, job, and social life; these are the things that keep your lifestyle unique and interesting even when your partner is not there.
Final Thoughts
Relationships are meant to give us companionship and happiness. It’s good to be sure and fully prepared before moving in with anyone.