Most people out there plan to eventually marry. Marriage has become (or rather always) been a rite of passage for many cultures. With the same determination as we have for our career goals, we’re taught to also strive for personal success and this often means marriage. A caveat to this notion is that while people who are married tend to be happier, it really has less to do with marriage itself than the level of social support you have in your life. It just happens that marriage is the dominant form of long-term social support we choose.
In a survey of 1200 adolescents, researchers found that 95% said that they would marry some day. It doesn’t look like marriage is going out of style anytime soon. If you decide on taking the plunge one day, here are some things researchers suggest you consider before getting married.
1. Money
Sure we all like to think that love trumps money but it’s actually one of the top reasons why people divorce. Being financially secure is also one reason why people wait to marry. Study shows that most people are willing to save up enough money to have the wedding they want and secure a steady income before marrying.
2. Age and life experiences
Marrying when you’re too young has some downfalls. The thing about life experiences is that it helps you get to know who you are as a person and consequently what you want out of life and a partner. Most people also want to complete some key life goals before getting married such as graduating from college and buying a home.
3. Viable marriage prospects
This is pretty much an essential part to whether you should get married: finding the right person. Most people surveyed said that they would rather be on their own than make a mistake by settling for someone. The truth is divorce is fear that many people share. People are now thinking more before they leap.
4. Think long-term
A no brainer you might think but many people marry someone who is right in that moment rather than thinking about long-term compatibility. Think about whether that person will fit into where you see yourself in future.
Amy Yew is a registered clinical counselor and relationship therapist. She is also the author of a fashion and lifestyle blog Style Du Jour. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to amyvancouvercourier@gmail.com.
