Marriage is a big step in a relationship, and it’s important to make sure you and your partner are on the same page about important aspects of your future together. Here are 10 topics that couples should discuss before getting married.
Important Topics to Discuss Prior to Marriage
1) Finances
This includes budgeting, saving, spending habits, investments, and whether or not you will combine bank accounts. You need to be on the same page about financial goals and plans for the future.
2) Property
Will you own property together? Will you both have a say in decisions about it? How will you handle any debts or mortgages? Discussing property can also involve discussing your plans for purchasing a home or renting an apartment.
3) Personal history
Discuss any past relationships, financial troubles, medical issues, and family dynamics. It’s important to be open and honest about your past so that you can move forward together with a clean slate.
4) Children and parenting
Do you want children? How will you handle childcare and discipline? Will one of you stay at home to care for the children or have a family member assist? Discussing parenting can also involve discussing education and values you want to instill in your children.
5) The in-laws
How will you handle holidays and other family events? Will you live near or far from each other’s families? How involved do you want your parents and siblings to be in your marriage and future children’s lives?
6) Future residential plans
Do you want to live in the same city or town forever, or do you want to move around for career opportunities or a change of scenery? Do you want to live in a rural or urban area? Discussing these plans can also involve discussing where you want to retire.
7) Personal time
Do you want alone time or do you prefer spending all of your free time together? How will you handle hobbies and interests that one partner may not share?
8) Conflict resolution
How do you handle arguments and disagreements? Are there any specific methods of communication or problem-solving that work for you as a couple?
9) Religion
Do you have the same or different religious beliefs? How will religion play a role in your marriage and future family life? Will you attend the same place of worship or have separate practices?
10) Household tasks
Who will be responsible for certain chores and responsibilities, such as cooking, cleaning, yard work, and home maintenance? Are there any household or organizational methods that you both agree on?
Overall, it’s important to have open and honest discussions about these topics before getting married. It’s better to address any potential problems or differences now rather than later in your marriage.
