You’ve been dating for a while now and things have been going really well. You’re certain your significant other is the one, but are you ready to become roommates?
Moving in with your significant other is a big step and can have major implications on your life. Having them live with you can alter your daily routine as well as change the dynamic of your relationship. Before making this decision, think critically about how this will affect both of you.
Morals: Do you share the same values? Shared values are arguably more important than shared interests in a relationship. Your values set the standard for how you live your life, and influence your decision-making.
Longevity: How far ahead can you see your relationship? Is your significant other someone you just enjoy having around for activities or do you often make future plans together? Are you both in the relationship for the long haul or will one of you be moving away without the other after college? What if one of you is offered a job in another city? Moving in together makes it considerably more difficult to leave the apartment, and especially, the relationship itself. Discuss your future plans to try and avoid unnecessary heartache.
Conflict: If your relationship already has problems, living together will not solve them. Major life changes most often only worsen existing conflicts. Evaluate what issues you and your partner have and decide if moving in will bring you closer or pull you apart.
Two’s Company: Perhaps most importantly, consider whether your partner would make a good roommate. Your relationship might be perfect when you each have your own separate space, but what happens when your things become his things? Is he well-organized or very messy? Does he stay up too late? Will he eat all of your food? It’s true that you don’t know a person until you’ve lived with them.
Once you have evaluated your reasons for moving in together and determined you are both ready and willing to take on the challenges and work together, then you may be ready to take this step. Having a significant other live with you can help to motivate you and nurture your personal growth, as long as you are both willing to compromise.
About the Author: Rachel Savering is a marketing student at Strayer University and will be graduating this spring with her Bachelor’s Degree. In addition to being a student, she is also in sales as an assistant manager and enjoys helping others. Rachel is passionate about writing as well as an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking and running.
Equal Housing Opportunity
