What is Marriage?
Asking “what is marriage?” may seem like a silly question. It’s the union between two people of course. But asking your partner “what is marriage to you” is an important topic and discussion to have. Learning and knowing what marriage means to your partner and ensuring you two are aligned in your goals is just the first step to ensuring a happy and long-lasting marriage. But there are still a few important topics you’ll need to discuss.12 Important Topics to Discuss Before Marriage:
- Finances: Discuss your financial situation, spending habits, savings goals, and attitudes toward debt. Consider whether you'll have joint or separate accounts and how you'll handle large expenses.
- Career Goals: Talk about your career aspirations, potential job relocations, work-life balance, and how you plan to support each other’s professional growth.
- Children: Discuss if you want children, how many, and your parenting philosophies. Consider your thoughts on discipline, education, and balancing work and family life.
- Living Arrangements: Decide where you will live, whether you're open to moving in the future, and your preferences for urban, suburban, or rural living.
- Household Responsibilities: Discuss how you will divide household chores and responsibilities, ensuring a fair and balanced approach that works for both of you.
- Religion and Spirituality: Talk about your religious beliefs or spiritual practices, how they will influence your life together, and how you will handle any differences.
- Family Relationships: Discuss your relationships with your families, how much time you plan to spend with them, and how you will handle potential conflicts.
- Conflict Resolution: Explore your conflict resolution styles and how you will address disagreements. Establish healthy communication techniques and boundaries for handling conflicts.
- Sexual Compatibility: Talk openly about your sexual needs, expectations, and any concerns. Ensuring sexual compatibility is an important aspect of a healthy marriage.
- Personal Values and Beliefs: Discuss your core values, beliefs, and life priorities to ensure alignment and understanding of each other’s perspectives.
- Health and Wellness: Share any health issues, habits, or concerns. Discuss how you will support each other’s physical and mental well-being.
- Future Goals and Dreams: Discuss your long-term goals, dreams, and aspirations. Ensure you have a shared vision for your future and support each other’s individual goals.