Marriage is a big deal in the US, with nearly 2 million wedding that took place in 2021 only. Most couples who are going to marry choose first to get engaged. Getting these steps right can be the foundation of a successful marriage and a happy marriage.
In the US, the average engagement takes place 15 months, and the average wedding costs about tens of thousands of dollars. That’s lots of money and time to commit to something that might not last.
So how can you tell if you and your partner are ready to take the next step? In this guide, we’ll explore how to know when you are ready to get engaged.
You Have a Strong Foundation of Friendship
Friendship is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship, and it is particularly important in romantic relationships. After all, when the going gets tough, it is your friends you want by your side, not just your partner.
A powerful friendship means that you can depend on and support each other through ups and downs. This is the kind of friendship that weathers all storms and becomes stronger on the other side.
If you and your partner are best friends, then you are well on your way to a successful engagement.
You Communicate Openly and Honestly
Is your relationship built on honesty and open communication? If so, that’s an excellent sign that you and your partner are ready to get engaged. After all, trust is crucial for a long-lasting relationship.
When you are honest with each other about your thoughts, feelings, and needs, it creates a deeper level of intimacy and connection. Plus, it sets the stage for productive conflict resolution.
With open communication, you will have the ability to overcome whatever challenges come your way — together.
You’re on the Same Page About Finance
Money is commonly one of the biggest sources of stress in a relationship, so it is important to ensure that you both have the same understanding of your financial goals and expectations.
There are several other ways to gauge whether you and your partner are ready to take the next step. First, look at your overall financial situation.
Do you have debt? Do you have savings? What are your monthly expenses?
These are all important factors to consider when determining whether you are financially ready for an engagement.
You also need to discuss your financial goals and expectations. Do you want to save for a down payment on a house? Do you want to start a family?
When you are both clear about your financial goals, it is easier to make decisions together about your money.
You Are Comfortable With Each Other’s Families
In-laws can be a source of stress for many couples, so it is important to ensure that you both feel comfy with one another’s families before getting engaged.
Do you get together with your partner’s parents? Do you get together with their siblings?
Of course, every family is different, and no in-law relationship is ideal. But if you can interact positively with your partner’s members of the family, it is a good sign that you are ready for engagement.
What if you still have not met his parents but feel like showing your commitment to the relationship? There are many that are unique promise rings for men which can help send a message home while you are waiting to meet his parents.
You Are Both Emotionally Mature
Emotional maturity is a vital quality in any relationship, but it is particularly important in romantic relationships. After all, a healthy romantic relationship requires both partners to have the ability to regulate their emotions.
So how do you know you and your partner are emotionally mature enough to get engaged? The main sign is that both of you’re able to handle conflict in a productive way and without letting your emotions get in the way.
Another sign is that you can both give and receive feedback in a healthy way. When you can have an open and honest conversation about your relationship, it is a good sign that you are on the same page emotionally.
You Share Similar Values and Life Goals
When two people are on the same page in terms of what they want out of life, it helps create a sense of unity and purpose. It also makes it easier to compromise and work together towards a common goal.
For example, if you both value family and career success, you can support one another as you strive to attain this stuff. If you have compatible life goals, such as traveling or starting a family, you can work together to make them occur.
Ultimately, sharing similar values and life goals is a sign that you and your partner are aligned and prepared to take the next step in your relationship.
You Are Ready for Commitment
Are you both ready to make a long term commitment to one another? Are you both ready for the potential challenges that come with being married?
When you are ready for engagement, you’ll have a good understanding of your own and your partner’s personal strengths and weaknesses. You’ll understand how to support one another through difficult times and how to compromise when necessary.
Know When to Get Engaged
Couples who get engaged at the right time tend to have successful relationships.
If the above signs are true for you, likelihood is that you and your partner are ready to get engaged. If not, it might be worth spending more time getting to know one another better before making a commitment.
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