Before shedding light on the things to consider before starting a relationship, it is best we first bring to bare the definition of what a relationship is. According to the Cambridge lexicon, relationship is the way two or more people are connected, or the way they behave toward each other. This means the event of a relationship as one of the most important parts of human lifestyle is fickle.
Many scholars even understand relationship to be capable of some kind of circumstance which defines the scope of human success or ability to survive in a highly competitive social life for a long time.
Also, good relationships with others are vital to maintaining a good relationship with God. This means we must always do the right things toward others no matter how much it hurts us or how they might react. The effects of relationship are as a matter of fact evident around us. Whether wrong or bad or right or good, blame relationships!
Moving forward, a relationship can be intimate, depending on the closeness or the attitudes that define it from the start. It can be said to be intimate when it turns out to be an interpersonal relationship that involves physical or emotional intimacy.
Although an intimate relationship is commonly a sexual relationship, it may also be a non-sexual relationship involving family or friends. Emotional intimacy is an essential aspect of a healthy relationship. So, what and what, when put together, are the things to consider before starting a relationship particularly between husband and wife, man and woman, guy and lady, etc.
Let us check the ingredients or condiments as outline below:
Know the Reason of Importance
One of the most things to consider when starting a relationship is knowing the reason of importance, that is, asking yourself why it is the next thing for you have. Without appropriate answer to this, there is no way you can do well as expected in the relationship.
So, in order to avoid failure before it even starts, it is better you consider the relevance or significance of your decision.
Have Life Goals
As adult children, we are under constant pressure from our parents and from society, but most important of all, from ourselves. However, having the ability to define life goals and recognizing I own the skills to pursue them should be the first to be considered before relationship.
So, the question to ask yourself is: do I have the strength or resources to help me qualify for a relationship. If not, then I don’t think that this is the right time for you to get into one.
Stamina to Deal with Past
Dealing with people’s past can be a very tempting venture most times, ask yourself if you can really withstand it. I am a naturally jealous and possessive individual. It always pinches whenever they talk about their ex. So, it is necessary to keep in mind their dating history, and before entering into a relationship, you should already be somewhat at peace with them having had experiences with their exes that they haven’t had with you.
Define Your Intentions
Before entering into a relationship, it is important to be aware of what your expectations are for it. Is it just a fling? Could it be serious? Or is it just a rebound? If you aren’t aware of this, then it is very easy to get lost in your feelings and not think logically. All of this will ultimately lead you to do certain things you might regret.
Read Also: Things to Consider to When Starting a Family
Know if You Can Cope With Addictions
All of us are addicted to something, be it something as innocent as books or something as harmful as drugs. It’s important to be aware of your crush’s addictions and assess if you would be able to handle them. If they are addicted to something harmful, you should probably reach out with help rather than make things official.
Be Self-Conscious
Before entering into a relationship, one should also have some sense of self-consciousness. You should know who you are, who you want to be, and what your limits are. I know it’s very difficult to define yourself at this age, but you should have a basic sense of all of this to prevent yourself from being overshadowed.
Understand Limits
You should also have some boundaries and have the ability to say no whenever you start to feel remotely uncomfortable. There’s no point in being in a relationship if you are not comfortable discussing with your partner what your boundaries and limits are.
You should know the importance of the word “no.” You should know what you are up for and be able to hit the brakes as soon as you don’t want to continue. If you don’t have the ability to do that, then neither of you benefit from the relationship.
Recognize Shared Interests
I know it’s important in every relationship to have somewhat different interests. But, it’s also equally important to have things that both of you enjoy and can spend a significant amount of time doing together. This will help you bond together on a deeper and more emotional level.