You are financially independent.
It’s a fact that couples with solid finances are happier. People who are ready to take the next step and start a household should be ready to finance a wedding; save for a house; and plan for retirement (not to mention the cost of future kids). You can handle regular bills, manage debt, and save money. You keep your economic stress down and maintain a reasonably steady budget.
You plan for the future
As in, you have a five-year plan and maybe a 10 year plan. Definitely career goals—at least some sort of direction in your life. Because if you don’t know where you’re going, how can you take someone else with you? You have developed your personal desires and have a clear sense of identity. You and your partner have discussed what you both want from life and are prepared to move forward.
You know what love is
Infatuation and intimacy are different. You’ve interacted with people enough to know when a relationship is special and will last, and when it won’t. The two of you share common interests and enjoy talking—even about touchy issues like religion or politics. You’ve confessed your secrets and ambitions. Genuine love is powerfully good. The One connects with you on a deep level and is worthy of your trust.
You keep promises
You are familiar with sticking to your commitments: showing up to work on time, volunteering regularly, and staying true to your word. Marriage calls for dedication. If you’re ready to tie the knot, you already desire to serve your partner with love, patience, and kindness—even when it’s tough. Unselfishness is essential to a healthy marriage and must be strong on both sides.
“You” includes your partner
When making plans, you include your partner in just about everything—because the two of you are a package deal. You enjoy personal time and like to hang out with friends/family, but also realize that marriage is being together. Sitting together, traveling together, cooking dinners together, sleeping together. That’s the whole point, isn’t it?
Any couple who is ready to go the distance (and make it) is part of something greater than just themselves. Both of you already think in terms of “us” and “we” instead of “I” and “me.”
***
Obviously, there are many more ways to know if you’re ready. How did you know he or she was the One? Share your story!