In previous decades, living together before marriage was a big taboo and completely unheard of. Following the sexual revolution of the 1960s and the growth of women’s autonomy, many couples choose to move in together as a step before marriage.
While some believe that moving in is a logical step before marriage is even considered, others still stand firm that it can hurt a relationship more than it can help. Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to move in.
Pros
– It is a good way to test a relationship
-You get to know your partner incredibly intimately
-It can be a step towards marriage if that is what you’re discussing
-Helps financially so you can split living costs
Cons
-It sometimes confuses the situation as one partner may expect it to mean marriage while the other just sees it as the next step
-It can break your relationship if you’re not ready
-It takes a little shine off the newlywed sparkle since you’ve already experienced living together
So? Should you do it?
While there are studies regarding the statistics on whether couples who move in make it, there is no real way to quantify or decide for each couple. A couple who has never moved in together could get married and realise they can’t stand living together just as easily as a couple could move in, get married later and live happily ever after. It is really about the two individuals and their relationship.
If you’re concerned, ask the following questions regarding the move before making the leap:
- Why do you want to move in with your partner now?
- If you don’t, consider asking yourself why not
- Have you discussed what moving in signifies to each of you?
- Are you prepared for the possibility that you may break-up even after moving in?
- What are some deal-breakers you need to discuss before making this decision?
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