Is it time to tie the knot?
Though, if we’re looking for a lifelong mate, a high interest in marriage could be encouraging.
When it comes todatingand relationships, everyone has different expectations.
Delmaine Donson / Getty Images
Others may have no intention of ever getting married.
Regardless of your intentions, marriage is not something to rush into.
They talk about your future together as a couple openly and honestly.
They set deadlines and are direct about their expectations.
But other times, this eagerness is less evident.
And if you are unable to connect the dots, missing the clues can lead toheartachefor both partners.
Here are some signs your partner probably has marriage on their mind.
Having parents who model happy, satisfied marriages can help bolster the desire to marry as an adult.
Pay attention to how they talk about their parents relationship, and other successful married couples in their lives.
If they are surrounded by other happily married people they likely also aim to reach this benchmark for themselves.
When these hints are dropped, it is best to have a straightforward conversation about your marriage goals.
First, your partner may just really enjoy decorating and truly have no ulterior motives.
Rather than making assumptions, ask your partner why they enjoy this pop in of shopping.
Or your partner could have realized that the person they were engaged to was not a good fit.
If your partner has had a string of engagements, this is ared flag.
Ask about the previous engagements to determine what went wrong and why your partner never married.
However, this is not a step you should take lightly.
Some participants in the study suggested that unprotected sex symbolized greater commitment.
For instance, your partner may welcome an unexpected pregnancy and see it as a path to marriage.
If you are not ready for a baby or marriage, use contraception every time.
Pregnancy requires discussion and should not be a spur-of-the-moment decision.
When this happens, eager partners are often more interested in the idea of marriage than in you.
Getting family members involved makes it difficult for you to relax and take things slow.
It’s best tohave an honest conversationabout your goals and expectations.
Your partner should be just as discriminant as you are about making a lifelong commitment.
Taking your time when you first meet someone is important.
The dating relationship is the perfect time to learn all you might about someone.
Healthy communication is one of the most important elements of a successful relationship.
So start things off right by asking your partner about expectations, thoughts, and goals.
You will be much happier in a relationship with someone with similar goals, and so will your partner.
If your partner is willing to wait on you, you could agree to a timeline.
For instance, ask that marriage discussions be delayed for at least three to six months.
Or, tell your partner that unprotected sex is not an option for you.
Clearly, your partner is unable to respect your wishes.
Talking about your feelings and plans now can ensure that you both have a say in what happens.
Talk About Your Goals
Discuss how you imagine your life in the coming years.
Do you see yourself having children, starting a business, moving, or traveling?
Or it might have something to do with how you feel about your partner and relationship.
Recognizing these issues now can help prevent future problems and heartbreak.
If you’re not ready to get married, have a serious discussion with your partner.
Talking about your plans can help ensure that you are your partner are on the same page.
Be sure you and your partner are having these discussions early on.
Your dating relationship will be much less stressful if you do.
Brumbaugh CC, Fraley RC.Adult attachment and dating strategies: How do insecure people attract mates?.Personal Relationships.
2013;12(2):135-149. doi:10.1080/15332691.2013.779097
