Are You and Your Partner Right for Each Other?

You and your partner have been together for a long time. However, you wonder if the two of you are meant to be. There are four important questions that you and your partner must ask each other if you haven't already. These four issues are also very important because they are on the top of the list of reasons why couples will split up if they cannot come to an agreement or at least come to a compromise.

1. Do you want children? If so, when? What are your views on discipline? Children are an important issue to discuss and should never be put off until after marriage. Do not assume that just because your partner is committed to you, that they will automatically want children if you do. Also do not assume that just because this issue has not been brought up, that your partner does not want children if you do not. If you both agree that you do want children, make sure to have an estimated age range on when you both feel would be right. Disciplining children also is a topic that needs to be discussed. It may seem too far ahead but issues with discipline could lead to family problems if not at least discussed before having children.

2. Do you believe in God? How important is religion to you? While there are some couples that believe in different things and still not have it affect their relationship, it is a very common problem. The reason is because some people find it hard to make deeper connections with their partner if they cannot make a spiritual connection. Your views do not have to be exactly the same, but unless you both are very open minded, they should be somewhat similar in ways that will not affect your relationship negatively.

3. What is your career going to be like in the future? Does one or the other want to be a stay-at-home parent in the future? Are you planning on finding something else in the long run? Do you want your partner to find something else? Do the careers you both have now provide you with enough financial security you need? Discussing career goals are very important. Never keep them to yourself because it could destroy a marriage in the future if your partner had different career ideas in mind. You might think that it is your decision if you want to change careers, but because they are your partner, they have the right to input their opinion too. If it is a drastic change, it could be too much for them to handle, so be sure to discuss this issue thoroughly.

4. Are you happy with the way both of you connect physically? Is there anything you want improved or changed? These issues of intimacy and sexuality may be a bit embarrassing or uncomfortable to talk about, but they are very important in a relationship. If you or your partner is not getting the intimacy that they want, it will not make them happy, therefore not making the relationship work. Good communication and trust is the key, and if you are thinking about making any further commitments, remember that you both need to be able to express yourselves freely in order to make it work.