Romantic relationships have a significant impact on the way we go about our lives. Suddenly our daily routine involves another person, and we put a lot of emotional and mental energy into being with them.
That is a lot to handle for many people, and the truth is, not everyone is ready for that sort of commitment. Perhaps, this time around, you think you’re prepared to take the jump and start seeing someone, but you’re not completely sure. If you’re looking for signs that you are ready for a relationship, here are some things to look for in yourself.
You are content with the way your life is right now.
Being in a relationship is not meant to complete your life. A relationship is meant to enhance what you already have, and if you go looking for someone to fill the piece that you feel you are missing, then there is a chance you will still feel like something is missing – even with a partner. You shouldn’t expect your partner to bring everything to the table just to help you feel complete; you should both care for each other equally.
You are mentally mature.
Being mentally mature can mean a thousand different things. It means you can admit to being wrong, you’re willing to change for the better, you don’t avoid constructive confrontation, and that you are an independent person who is confident in their ability to serve as a partner to someone else. If you don’t believe you are mature enough to create a long-lasting healthy relationship with someone, it would be selfish to pursue something that will result with both parties getting hurt.
You have a good support system.
Many people notice that with time they start to slowly isolate themselves more and more from their friends and family because they are caught up in the honeymoon stage of their relationship. It is important to make sure you have your own life outside of your partner, and you have people in your life that you can always go to. A relationship may not last forever, but good friends and family will.
You are satisfied with the person that you are.
Attempting to fix or find yourself should be done independently – absolutely not within a relationship. That is a journey that should be taken alone, and you should not be dependent on someone else to feel happy. Once you feel complete as an individual, then it is healthy to find a partner.
You are not afraid of commitment.
Relationships are scary. They take a lot of time and energy, but they won’t work unless both you and your partner want it to. If either of you are not able to give each other your full commitment, then you’re in for a rocky ride. If you think that you’re at a place in like where you feel confident you can share yourself with someone else, then there is a good chance you’re ready for a relationship.
The only person who knows whether or not you are ready to date is yourself – hopefully these points help point you in the direction you need!