Before Making This Move, Think Twice
Moving in with a significant other is a major step in every relationship. You have reached a point where you are comfortable enough to share space for long periods of time, and think you are ready to test it long-term. Sounds insane, but if marriage is potentially on the horizon, you are going to want to test the waters before signing up for “forever.”
Is moving in together the right next step? (Photo: iStock Photo)
But before you take this leap, make sure both parties are truly ready. You don’t want to jump into this because you feel you have to or you have been dating long enough. Everyone’s timelines vary, so there is no after two-, five-, 10-years rule. Take a step back for a second. Ask yourself, does this feel right? Does it benefit both parties in the relationship? Are both partners onboard? Moving together is partially a leap of faith, but at most of it should feel right and natural. If the logistics aren’t adding up, don’t feel like you have to rush into a commitment overnight.
Let’s say you both have really thought this out, and you are both in. What next? Your next move is to have a talk. Not about marriage or kids, but about your baggage — literally. Realistically, you have accoumulated a lot living on your own all this time and so has your partner. Realistically you cannot fit everything into your new apartment, so you need to discuss what stays and what goes.
Deciding what to keep or throw out can be harder than you think. We are all guilty of getting attached to our things, and sometimes we don’t even realize it until it is time to throw it out. But realistically, it is somehing you can’t avoid. So binge watch Marie Kondo’s Tidying Up on Netflix to get inspired and only keep things that spark joy. If it doesn’t, get rid of it. If it does, find a place for it together.
Part of moving in together is taking a leap of faith. (Photo: Shutterstock)
Lastly, agree to stay level-headed throughout your move. Up and changing your life can be stressful, so be extra cautious and open with your partner. If you let things simmer, they will only build up and get worse later on. Communicate your concerns throughout the move so you are transparent with one another.
Ultimately moving in together will have its rough patches, but once you are in the swing of things you will know whether or not you made the right decision. Stay level-headed and get ready to embark on this journey together!
