7 Things To Consider Before Entering Into A Relationship

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According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), about 35% of the population above 16 years in England and Wales are single and have never married. If you are thinking about leaving this demographic anytime soon, there is undoubtedly a lot to consider to ensure a long-term relationship that works. This way, you can make sure that any union you enter into is right for you at that specific time. If you wish to learn about what to consider before entering into a relationship with someone, examine the following points.

1. Relationship dynamics

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Modern-day relationships are more complicated than ever before, so it is essential to consider fundamental dynamics before making any commitments. Awareness of the nature of your relationship guarantees that you have standards against which you can measure whether your expectations are being met. These dynamics also ensure that you and your partner are on the same page and respect each other’s boundaries. For example, you can enter into a casual relationship that requires less commitment and isn’t yet clearly defined as a formal relationship. Expectations and limitations for such a union can vary from person to person, so it is critical to agree with your partner on what constitutes your casual relationship. 

Alternatively, a monogamous relationship is clear about the commitment levels partners must exhibit both romantically and sexually. Friends with benefits, open relationships, courtships, and domestic partnerships are other arrangements with different dynamics you can enter into. These dynamics are not only helpful in clarifying expectations but can also come in handy for legal matters. For instance, the legal definition of a de facto relationship can entitle you to a property claim following the breakdown of any such union you had with your partner. Failure to classify the relationship as de facto might result in significant consequences like losing property and other benefits, so it is always best to define the dynamics of your relationship before committing to it.

2. Sex

Many relationship experts also recommend considering sex before entering any relationship, so keep this in mind. Expectations, and especially boundaries, need to be clearly defined so you can honour each other in the relationship. Some of the typical limitations to discuss in this area include sexting, pornography, and sexual history. This way, you and your partner can be on the same page regarding sex to prevent any problems moving forward.

3. Geography

There is no denying that where you and your partner live is a prime matter worth considering for a practical, long-lasting relationship. At some point, it will become necessary to live together in the same place to make things work, even if you start a long-distance relationship. Lori Salkin, a senior matchmaker, love and dating coach, opines that couples who are not on the same page regarding short and long-term living options are bound for failure irrespective of the chemistry and emotional connection between them. As such, discuss the need for the two of you to reside in the same city with your partner. Suppose either of you feels so strongly about living in a specific city to the point where you are unwilling to adjust and abandon your geographical dreams. In that case, your relationship will likely never survive in the long term.

4. Religion

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In 2001, a reported 21,000 interfaith marriages were recorded in the UK. Although there hasn’t been a relapse of new statistics on this issue since then, UK-based Imams have told Al Jazeera that these numbers have surged recently. Religion is worth considering before entering into a relationship, whether you are religious or not, for many reasons. For instance, it might be a deal-breaker for you to date or marry an areligious or atheist partner if you believe in God and vice versa. 

Similarly, you may not want to date a partner practising another religion. Although it isn’t necessary to practice the same religion for your relationship to work, respect for each other’s religious status, or lack thereof, must be considered. Even if you feel religion isn’t a big issue now, it will most likely be in the future, particularly if you plan on having children together at some point. Therefore, discuss faith and religion with your partner before taking the bold step into a committed relationship to prevent future complications.

5. Gender roles

Gender roles are a significant factor to consider before entering into any relationship these days. Many people prefer being with someone who views them as an equal, so knowing where you and your partner stand on this issue is fundamental to the genesis of any serious relationship. Consequently, find out your partner’s stance on male and female roles in the home, workplace, church, and during sex to know what sort of ideals and behaviours your partner is looking for and whether they align with yours. Many relationship experts agree that a couple can function despite disagreeing on this. Still, there must always be a degree of compromise since this will dictate most aspects of your relationship and lives in the future.

6. Political views

YouGov research reveals that one-third of Labour voters say they would be upset if their children married a Conservative, with twice as many Conservatives expressing similar opinions in reverse. Political affiliations, which often seem of secondary importance, are often vital in romantic relationships. If your potential partner must share the same political views as you, your relationship might be doomed even before it starts if they don’t. Also, although you may disagree on things, you must respect each other enough to entertain differences and remain united. In addition, it is prudent to consider your partner’s views on global warming, abortion, same-sex marriage, and other topical issues beyond party lines before entering into a relationship. 

7. Children

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Many would-be couples often shelve the topic of children till their relationship seems serious and headed for marriage. Still, it is critical to know your partner’s stance on children from the beginning. This way, you can determine the family values that your potential partner must have for the relationship to work in the long term. Therefore, talk about the number of children you would like to have and discuss adoption, fertility treatments, contraception, and other related issues. In addition, discuss how you would want to raise a family so you and your partner are on the same page regarding nurturing your children. 

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