What every woman should do before getting married?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

Before getting married, every woman should take the time to focus on herself, her personal growth, and her independence. Here are eight things that I believe every woman should do before tying the knot:

1. Date and have relationships: It’s important to explore different types of relationships and figure out what you truly want in a partner. By dating and having relationships, you can learn more about yourself and your preferences, which will ultimately help you build a stronger foundation for a successful marriage.

2. Live by yourself or with roommates: Living alone or with roommates allows you to experience independence and learn valuable life skills. It gives you the opportunity to take care of yourself, manage your finances, and make decisions without relying on someone else. This independence will serve you well in a marriage, as you’ll have a better sense of self and a higher level of self-sufficiency.

3. Be financially independent: It’s crucial for women to be financially independent before getting married. This means having your own source of income, managing your finances responsibly, and being able to support yourself financially. Being financially independent not only gives you peace of mind but also ensures that you have the ability to make decisions based on what’s best for you, rather than being dependent on your spouse.

4. Get in one good fight with your fiancé: Conflict is a natural part of any relationship, and it’s better to experience it before getting married. Having a healthy argument or disagreement with your fiancé can help you understand each other’s communication styles, problem-solving abilities, and how you handle conflict as a couple. It’s an opportunity to learn more about your compatibility and how well you can resolve issues together.

5. Travel the world: Traveling broadens your horizons, exposes you to different cultures, and helps you become more adaptable. Before settling down, take the time to explore new places, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories. Traveling together as a couple can also strengthen your bond and create shared experiences that will last a lifetime.

6. Develop a hobby or two: Having hobbies outside of your relationship is essential for personal growth and maintaining a sense of individuality. Whether it’s painting, playing a musical instrument, or practicing yoga, finding activities that bring you joy and fulfillment will not only make you a more well-rounded person but also give you a sense of purpose outside of your marriage.

7. Establish a solid support system: Building a strong support system of friends and family is crucial before getting married. These are the people who will be there for you during both the good times and the challenging times. Having a strong support system will provide emotional support, advice, and a sense of belonging, which can be invaluable throughout your married life.

8. Stop sharing every detail of your relationship with others: While it’s important to have a support system, it’s equally important to maintain a level of privacy in your relationship. Not every detail of your relationship needs to be shared with others. Keeping some aspects of your relationship between you and your partner can help build trust and intimacy. Learn to communicate with your spouse and address issues within the relationship without involving others unnecessarily.

Taking the time to date, live independently, be financially stable, experience conflict, travel, develop hobbies, establish a support system, and maintain privacy are all important steps for a woman to take before getting married. These experiences and skills will help you grow as an individual and lay a strong foundation for a happy and successful marriage.