Mostly everything you were told not to talk about on the first date is what you will need to get around to discussing before saying I DO.
1. Likes, Dislikes and Must Haves
If you love to keep your space extremely neat and organized, it’s imperative to share this. Assuming that simply because someone has visited you in your home and sees everything neat and tidy that they know how you keep your space can be a huge mistake. Most of the time when having company over a quick straightening up is good enough. Be open about “how” you like to keep your space, how often you do specific cleaning task etc., this offers clarity.
2. Religion Preference
This is a big one because of cultural differences; for example, how you worship, where you worship, beliefs and wedding inclusions. Understanding the religion increases respect for it.
3. Expanding The Family
Choosing to have children is a huge step in a relationship. In a nutshell, life changes drastically. Every decision is made based on the needs of the child. If you are a person who wants children, keep this in mind when deciding what you are looking to gain in a relationship. Your partner MUST want children as well. It is extremely challenging to change the mind of one who doesn’t. This can create issues that can lead to resentment.
4. Prior Relationships
When either party has children blending the family is important. Creating an atmosphere that everyone can feel safe, trust, inclusion, and love makes for a smoother transition.
5. Goals
Evolution is inevitable. We are constantly changing whether we want to or not. Life has a wonderful way of forcing our journeys. Becoming one means providing for two or more. The career path you’ve chosen can remain your passion but your innovation and creativity WILL be altered. Identify with each others living experiences. Determine what it will take to empower each other to reach your full potential as a couple and as individuals.
6. Traditions
This one seems to stress couples out throughout the year. It’s almost second nature to carry over family traditions into your new relationship. These moments shared with family are memories to cherish forever. So why not share them with your new partner. However, remember that they do not have to love every single tradition or want to participate. The best way to keep the fun and excitement of traditions is to create some of your own and figure out a way to share them. This shows that you care about each other’s differences.
7. Health
How you take care of your body will determine how you live. Personally, I believe a healthier lifestyle aids in a healthier marriage. It keeps you feeling motivated, energized, focused and united.
8. Credit
I’m sure many will cringe while reading this fact, but it is as important as the rest. We all know what it takes to become a proud owner. Although gratifying, it can be challenging. a. Your credit score will follow you your entire life. Once it goes south, it’s hard to repair. b. It will influence your ability to find a place to live. When it comes to basic needs shelter is at the top of the list. c. It could put a crimp in your romantic relationship. (U.S. News & World Report, Money) This is a topic that is preferably avoided but nothing is worst than the surprise of one’s credit history. Good or bad becoming one combines everything including credit.
Discovering your true love is such a magical feeling. Knowing that there is one person who is willing to accept you for whom you are and share their values with you is one of the most beautiful forms of security. No marriage is perfect and will face its challenges. However, being somewhat prepared for life as a married couple eases the stress of creating your new normal.
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How much money she makes. Very important.
Kidding. It’s a good list.
I figured Goals would cover that one. ?
Thank you!