But you’ll also need to be emotionally prepared if it turns out they want something different than you.
What Are You Looking For?
Additional questions to consider: What does marriage mean to you?
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Are you trying to fix the relationship through marriage?
Are you trying to just someone else?
Do you want to have children and feel that you have to be married to do so?
If you aren’t sure exactly what you want,pull out a journaland start writing down your feelings.
You might be surprised to learn more about what it is that you want out of marriage.
Balance Your Needs
Neither partner should feel obligated to give uptheir needsto be in the relationship.
Figure out what compromises you’re willing to make on certain issues.
Process Your Feelings
Use this time toprocess your feelingsrather than attempt to change or influence your partner.
Reflect on what you want in a partner and whether your current partner is the right person for you.
Hear Their Perspective
A marriage is made up of two individuals with different perspectives.
Have respect for your partner’s freedom of choice and individualism.
She argues that understanding where your partner is coming from is key.
Meanwhile, others may find themselves tempted but also fearful about committing.
There are some things you’re able to both do to work towards a more harmonious relationship.
For example, you may be concerned about timelines for starting a family.
Through individual therapy, you could work through these issues and find the best solutions for your long-term happiness.
You will probably experience a range of emotions, from sadness at the loss toangerat the time wasted.
Try asking them what they are feeling or talk out different scenarios together to have a better understanding.
However, it’s important not to dwell on “what could have been.”
The best time to leave is when you’ve exhausted all options at making things work.
At that point, you’re free to feel confident that you gave everything you had.
If you could, have a go at focus on the better future that is waiting for you.
Uecker JE.Marriage and mental health among young adults.J Health Soc Behav.
1996;58(4):917. doi:10.2307/353980
