For many women, marriage is something they have been longing for since they were little girls. While it is undoubtedly an exciting and memorable experience in life, there is more to it than what meets the surface. For this reason, it is advisable to not rush your trip down to the altar. Marriage changes “it is all about me” to “It is all about us”. You need to prepare mentally, emotionally, and physically for a successful and long-lasting marriage. Here are 5 things every woman should do before getting married:
1. Be financially independent
There is nothing like having your own money without the need to depend on another person. Whether you have a career or a good-paying job, being financially independent means you are not going to get married because you need to. You know your worth so if there is any reason for splitting up or divorcing, you can stand on your feet.
2. Develop a hobby
Hobbies do not only make you more interesting, but they give you your own time and space, which will come in handy when you enter your marriage. Find a hobby in running, reading, writing, yoga or meditation and so on. These are good outlets to express yourself and relieve tension and stress in your life will make you a better spouse and a happier person generally.
3. Establish a solid support system
Getting married many times moves your friend circle. Naturally, you would start having less time to spend with the girls as you start adjusting to married life. You may find that you and your husband entertain and go out together, possibly with other couples so it is important to nurture your relationships with your good friends.
4. Stop sharing every detail of your relationship with others
When you first met or started dating, you might have unveiled every tiny detail about your new partner to your friends and maybe even your family. But now that you’re serious, it’s important to preserve and protect the integrity of the relationship. Your marriage is sacred and what happens in your relationship needs to stay in your relationship. If you must be open with your relationship publicly especially in times of conflict, lean on a trusted best friend to blow off steam or find a therapist that you can confide in. Also, learn skills to be a better mate.
5. Travel the world
Use the time before getting married to see and experience the beautiful world around you. Of course, you can, and likely will, travel with your future spouse, but having the experience of travelling solo or with friends on your own accord—experiences that you can carve out for yourself and decide what they mean to you as an individual—can build you up. Once you get married, travelling with a partner will be different and the places that you go you will decide together. Take advantage of your freedom while you are not yet married to be selfish with your travelling plans.