So, you’re in love. How delicious. Except… falling’s the easy part, Darling. Here’s what can (and should) come next in your romantic adventuring. 

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Love looks different for everyone. It can come with sweaty palms, deep conversations, and the feeling of it all just being, well… right. But it can also come with a lot of insecurities and questions. Being in love is vulnerable, after all.

For those of you out there who find yourself in this state of being, there’s no need to worry. Let it be what it is. But the fact that you’re out there doing research on your next steps shows some incredible maturity. Your partner is lucky to have you.

So – what’s next?

You’re in love, you know that much. But now what?

If you find that these questions are crossing your mind, it’s time, perhaps, to figure out your next steps. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Enjoy Where You Are

If a long-term relationship is where you want to go, it’s okay to know that, but remember to enjoy where you are now.

One of my closest college friends got engaged to a guy after three months of dating. Granted, they were friends before, but moving into that next phase was a lot. Planning a wedding and trying to figure out how the two of you fit together? It can be hard.

This particular couple has been married for several years now, but not without some seriously difficult bumps in the road that almost led to their divorce.

So, in short, take your time.

Talk About Your Future Together

If you want to move forward, there’s no way to get around talking about your future. And if you’re both on the same page, chances are, you’ll both be excited to talk about it.

The best way to find out? Just ask.

Ask questions about where your partner sees the two of you in six months, or in a year. What are they looking for in a relationship? What would they change about the way their parents interacted as a couple? What did they really like about it? Questions like these help you know your partner on a deeper level, which will help align where it is the two of you see yourself going.

Get to Know One Another’s Families

This can be a hard one depending on how your partner relates to his or her family. Whether they’re super close or never talk, understanding where they came from will be really helpful in figuring out your future.

Families are quirky, and you need to know how you fit into their picture. Try hosting an informal game night or dinner party at your house, or something that will get people to know you. If, for example, you know your better half’s siblings are into water sports, see if you can tag along for an adventure with the team.

Know the Difference between a Wedding & a Marriage

Modern culture puts a lot of emphasis on the “Big Day.” With the average wedding costing upwards of $30,000, it’s important to realize what this day symbolizes if getting engaged is in your future. The wedding day is just the beginning of a long commitment to one person. 

Be sure when you pick out that beautiful diamond ring together, you are saying “yes” to more than the sparkle of a day. A life together requires patience and sacrifice if you want it to be long-term; and being able to positively look at each unique step of your relationship ahead of time has the ability to make your journey flow easier and stay exciting.

Being in love is one of the best feelings in the world.

Knowing the person you’re with understands what makes you tick and is there to help you through anything life sends your way is really and truly incredible. Congratulations on finding that. Use this article as a tool to help you figure out what to do with this newfound love and may you continue to enjoy it for many years to come.