Taking the Next Step Part 1
Depending on your relationship, ‘taking the next step’ can refer to getting a pet, getting engaged or having kids however, in this case, we’re referring to moving in together.
The thought of going to sleep and waking up next to your loved one is a wonderful feeling but we often forget about all the other things that may come with moving in with your partner.
There are many lessons to be learnt from a successful move to an unsuccessful move, either one, you’ll be able to learn from any mistakes and apply that to your relationship. Here are some things you need to think about before making the decision to move in with your partner.
Commitment
Moving in with your partner is a massive step, not just emotionally, but physically as well. You’re committing to moving your entire life from one home – the home that has been your comfort zone for years into a strange place. Apart from moving all your furniture and bits and pieces, you need to move your emotional comfortability too. You need to be 100% committed to your partner before you move into a home together. Make sure this is addressed when you discuss this.
Paying Bills & Rent
When you move into a home with your partner, you need to ensure that you’ve discussed the whole money issue. Don’t ever assume that your partner will be covering everything and you’ve talked about who will be paying what. As unromantic as it may sound, it’s a crucial and mature step that needs to be considered when you move in with your partner. (We wrote about how to talk about money)
Similar Visions
Does moving in mean you’re getting engaged, getting married or having kids? Does your partner have the same vision as you and if not, has this been clearly communicated? You both need to be on the same wavelength in order to have similar visions and be committed to each other in your relationship. Don’t move in together if you feel you love your partner more or if your partner isn’t as serious as you are.
Are You Ready?
The most important question of all is are you ready to move in with your partner? Never allow anyone in your life to pressure or guilt-trip you into moving out when you truly aren’t ready. No matter how old you are or how long you’ve been in your relationship, you should never feel society’s pressures to move in with your partner when you know you aren’t ready. This can only end in disaster.
