Getting into a romantic relationship is not as easy as the movies make it out to be. Although we see a lot of young couples around, there are actually very important things to consider before committing yourself to a partner.
Many couples break up because of irreconcilable differences, bad sex, financial issues, among an endless range of other possible reasons. Before you could hope to be in a truly happy, mature, and serious relationship, it’s true that you have to focus on yourself first.
Here’s how to find out if you’re ready to change your single status to “taken”:
You’re happy with where you are in life
Most people have the misconception that you need to be in a romantic relationship to be truly happy. That’s not true at all. There are people who are single but are perfectly happy with where they are in life.
True happiness is not found in another person. It’s found in yourself. When you’ve realized true satisfaction, contentment, and joy with where and who you are as an individual, that’s the only time you’ll be ready to share it with someone else.
You know how to compromise
A relationship involves two people. That means you both have to compromise for each other. You can’t expect to agree on every single thing, no matter how much you have in common.
Being in a relationship requires understanding and compromise. In order to establish a healthy relationship, you have to learn to meet halfway and adjust accordingly.
You know how to be independent
Being too dependent on someone in a relationship can be unhealthy and toxic. Having a significant other means being able to share your lives with each other. But it doesn’t mean that you can be completely dependent on one another.
You have to learn to be happy being on your own first before you can share your life with someone else.
You know how to communicate effectively
Communication is one of the most important factors in a relationship. It’s a two-way street that both partners have to understand. Learning to communicate effectively is as simple as expressing your feelings in a clear manner, instead of being passive-aggressive.
Successful relationships depend highly on how well you and your partner can communicate your emotions and needs to each other.
You love yourself
It’s difficult to love someone who doesn’t love themselves. Most people make the mistake of jumping into a relationship because they want to be loved, accepted, and adored. But they don’t realize that love should come from within.
Before finding someone to share your life with, you have to make sure you’re in love with yourself first. Otherwise, you’ll run the risk of settling for things you don’t deserve.
You understand that a partner will not “complete” you
Many enter into relationships thinking that having a significant other will “complete” them. But if you want to be in a relationship because you want to feel complete, you might be searching for something you’ll never find.
Relationships compose of two whole people coming together — not two halves to form a whole. You need to learn to be complete on your own before you can come together with someone else.
It’s truly difficult to find the perfect match for you. Instead of going around speed dating and trying to find someone you’re most compatible with, try to seek the help of professional matchmakers.
