Things to Consider Before Entering a Relationship; Keeping It Healthy

When you are single, you might be tempted to get into a relationship, but when it comes to commitment, many conveniently shy away from the process. Most people find it easier to say I love you and share a passionate kiss than to make a commitment in a relationship.

Most people struggle to figure out how to stay committed in a relationship. Usually, millennials tend to commit to things or people pretty less than the older generation as the younger generation does not prefer being rushed into things, whether about making a career decision, buying a new house, or entering a committed relationship.

The Pew Research Center backs this assertion. According to the research, Millennials in Adulthood, millennials are less likely to be married in their 20s as compared to the previous generation.

Committing to a relationship is no joke; thus, there are many things to consider when you decide to enter into one.

Things you might want to consider before entering into a relationship:

1. Readiness and Commitment.

You must check first if you're ready to enter a relationship as it might look complicated to others and can affect your thoughts, as you can easily be swayed if you're not yet prepared. A relationship is not all about love but, most importantly, the acceptance of each other's imperfections and flaws and how committed a person can be to becoming a couple.

2. Setting Boundaries.

Boundaries, whether physical, emotional, electronic, sexual, etc., play an essential part in every relationship. When you are in a relationship, it is vital to communicate your boundaries with your partner, as they may assume that certain things are acceptable when they are not.

There's no formal rule for how long you should talk before doing things a normal couple would do. Relationship experts share insights on how long you should stay in the talking phases with your potential lover and how you know you're in an actual relationship. 

According to "The Language of Modern Romance - A Study," 23 percent of people would consider themselves in a relationship after kissing each other, but most would label that as just being friends with benefits, per Face Tune.

Read Also: On A Break: Here's Why Taking A 'Relationship Sabbatical' Is Good For Couples

3. Accepting each other's differences.

Recognizing each other's differences is crucial as both of you have unique pasts, paths, and perspectives. These differences will probably make you a great couple in the first place, but before entering a relationship, ask yourself if you are ready to accept each other entirely. Accepting your partner for who they are, including their differences, will help keep your committed relationship healthy.

4. Political Views.

At least 47 percent of millennials wouldn't date someone who doesn't share their political views. You don't want to get into a relationship with someone and then suddenly realize you're not on the same page. If you don't have the same stand, it could create problems in the future.

5. What is your relationship with your exes?

Many people don't stay friends with their exes, so it's not likely that your new partner will judge you for it. Sharing your past does not mean you have to share it on your first date but at least tell your partner what happened, especially if it ended badly and resulted in restraining orders or legal issues. That is something your partner deserves to have a heads up about.

6. What are your plans ahead?

If you don't see your partner in the future, stop bothering them as they do not deserve attention that won't last. Tell your plans to your partner. You and your partner should share at least short-term goals, as it would be unfair when you're being shipped off for a two-year stint in another country, per Bustle.

Bear in mind that when you enter a relationship, there will be a lot of talking and communication. Those discussions will shape you and your character as a lover and as a person in society.

Related Article: Does Living Together Before Marriage Makes the Relationship Stronger?