Proposing can be one of the most exciting and intimidating moments of your life. Whether you’ve been in a relationship for months or for years, knowing when to get engaged can be more challenging than just picking out the ring. Here are seven signs you’re ready to pop the question.
You don’t want to experience anything without them
In the early stages of a relationship, it’s natural to do things separately. But, as the relationship becomes more serious, you may find yourself wanting to be separated from your partner less and less. If you’d rather go on vacation with your buddies than your better half, you’re probably not ready to propose just yet.
You can picture the wedding
Most guys don’t think about their wedding (at least not all the tiny details) until they meet “the one”. If you start having conversations about the type of food you want at the wedding and whether you want a DJ or a live band, it might be time to take the next step in your relationship.
You start saving for the future
As a bachelor, saving for the future meant putting money aside for a trip to Vegas or those new sneakers. If you’re ready to get serious with your love, then you will need to have an honest discussion about saving for a house, children and retirement. Similarly, be honest about any debt you may be hiding. If your partner marries you, they will be tied to your debt as well.
You make long term plans
Making plans can be a fun part of any relationship, whether it’s dinner with friends next weekend or a trip to visit family next month. But when your plans become more long term – a trip to Europe next Christmas, because obviously you will still be together – then you’re ready to start discussing your life with them.
You’re ready to join their family
Families can be difficult in the best of times. If your partner is ready to accept your family with the good and the bad – and you’re ready to do the same for theirs – you can start talking about creating a family of your own. It is also a good sign if your family and friends are supportive of your relationship and the direction it’s headed.
You have the same values and ambitions
Marriage will never work if you and your partner don’t share the same values and ambitions for the future. Do you both want children? If so, how many, and how will they be raised? Will you put most of your money in savings or will you go on yearly trips? It is important to talk about all aspect of life before making the plunge. One overlooked detail could derail a relationship later on.
You don’t question your feelings
The days of the little black book are well behind us, but it’s not rare to have a few exes on your phone’s contact list or Facebook account. If you’re really ready to commit to a lifetime together, and you’re absolutely sure of your feelings, then you need to feel comfortable ridding your life of any exes. If you aren’t excited about the prospect of spending the rest of your life with one person, you aren’t ready to propose.
