A big, grand proposal and a romance that leaves you feeling weak in the knees might sound like the ultimate fairytale - but not giving yourself and your partner ample time to think about what comes after the proposal is not the best move. In the society that we live in, a lot of emphasis is, undoubtedly, laid on the concept and act of marriage. No, let me correct that. A lot of emphasis is laid on the concept of marriage and the act that is the 'Big Fat Indian Wedding'. It's easy to get carried away with all the new clothes, the grand celebrations, the fancy decor - but what people often forget is that once the wedding ends, life actually starts. Life as two individuals, who are now bound to each other forever. Before you commit to spend the rest of your life (for better or for worse) with someone, there are a few basic discussions that you ought to have with your partner. No matter how uncomfortable you might feel addressing these issues now, you should go ahead and talk about them anyway. These awkward talks are what could decipher the kind of life that you will lead.
Also Read: Does A Simpler Wedding Lead To A Happier Married Life? Here's Your Answer
Here are a few conversations you need to have with your partner before you say "I do".
1. The Money Talk
Few people can get right down to asking someone, even their own partner, about their financial situation. But here's the thing, if you're planning to share your expenses and more importantly your home with someone, you need to know just how 'healthy' or not their monetary situation is. It doesn't need to be something that affects your decision to be with them, but it is something that you should be aware of. Your idea about the kind of life that the two of you could be leading should be crystal clear before you actually start a life together. Your finances and his will play an important role in deciding the future of the family that you could be planning to build together. So be honest and upfront and don't shy away from having the 'money talk'.
2. The Baby Talk
When it comes to something as fundamental as wanting or not wanting a child, shying away from conversation is just not an option. The fact that you and your partner have differing views on such a thing is not something you want to discover after you're married. So if your relationship is heading towards marriage, come right out and talk to your partner about babies. How many children does he/she want, if any? Does he/she have a preference as far as the gender of the child goes? If yes, why? These are some basic questions that you should have answers to.
Also Read: You Want Marriage, He Doesn't. This Is What You Need To Do
3. The Family Talk
Depending on how you've been brought up and the kind of individual that you are, you are likely to have a preference as far as your living situation goes. Would you be okay living in a joint family? Or would you prefer setting up your own place in preparation for a nuclear family? What are your partner's preferences? Don't circumvent or try to be polite as far as your living situation goes. It is something that is going to affect you every single day. So be clear about your preferences and your partner's.
