Committed Before 25

Committing to a long-term relationship just as your adult life has gotten started (or even before) isn’t for everyone. But if you find yourself in love and want to spend forever with that person, there are a few things you should know straight away.

Take your time

People who settle down towards the end of their twenties or later are different than people who do before that. Their brains are fully developed, they’ve likely had more life experiences, and really know exactly what they want in life. Even the most mature young people have a lot to learn about themselves and the world around them. So even if you’re sure you’re going to end up with this special person, slow it down. Don’t jump on the chance to get married or have children right away. Enjoy the carefree, innocent stages of dating and really get to know that person. Moving too quickly could destroy a relationship that otherwise would have thrived.

Welcome Change

You have to accept the fact that the person you fell in love with will likely go through a world of change over the years as they “grow up”. Just as you will. Just as you both should. Learning to navigate through phases of the adult world together is stressful. You have to learn to fall in love again and again– or you have to walk away.

Forgive and Forget

For whatever reason, there's this belief that if someone really loves you they will never hurt you. False. So false! Especially when it comes to young people. You will both likely make mistakes. It’s a part of life. Also, when you forgive someone that means you’re putting the matter behind you. You won't bring it up again or hold it against them. Side note: be sure to educate yourself on abusive behavior. Under no circumstance should that be tolerated.

Respect Always

Forgiveness is important, but so is respect. Fundamental in every type of relationship in your life, though we tend to treat the ones we love the most the worst because of the level of comfort we have with them. Never take advantage of the fact that your significant other will forgive you. Another aspect of respect in young relationships is remembering that it’s a vital time for each of you to develop individuality– your entire identity cannot be wrapped up in the relationship.

Communication Is Key

Young relationships are infamous for playing games. Cut the crap! Keep the line of communication always open. This is the only way you’ll get to actually understand who a person is and it will build a strong emotional connection that you’ll need to get through difficult times. If a serious bond is what you want then act like it.

It's so easy for young people in serious relationships to fall down slippery slopes. That is, burning out just as quickly as the flame ignited. In a lot of cases it’s for the best. You're not always meant to settle down with the first or second person you date. There’s a misunderstanding that true love is easy. The fact of the matter is that love requires a lot of maintenance, and some people realize that and cut out because they're just not ready for that. And that’s okay too.

Thanks to my best friend and soulmate, Michael. The decade I’ve spent with you is the reason I could compile this simple but solid list today. A lot of lessons learned and memories cherished. I love you so much, and I’ve never once regretted devoting my young life to us. To many more years.