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As romantic as the notion of marriage may be, most people don’t stop to think if they are actually “marriage material.” Many think that simply because you fall in love and date for a year or two, marriage is the natural next step – but it’s not for everyone.

Make sure you’re honest with yourself about what you bring to the table. After all, you can’t attract a man who possesses the traits of a good husband if you don’t display those traits yourself (and of course the same applies to men).

MUST READ: ‘Every Man Wants To Get Married, Why Aren’t They Marrying You?’ 8 Single, Married Or Divorced Men Have The Answer [EXCLUSIVE]

There’s several factors that go into marriage and many of us haven’t even begun to soul search enough to uncover these things. So while you’re all googly-eyed, looking at your lover, focus and go through this checklist to make sure you’re ready.

Are you ready for commitment?

Sounds obvious, but many people only begin to think about commitment because it’s “time.” Their friends are getting married and family members are being pushy so they feel pressure, but internally they are not sure they are ready.

Is it more important to be happy than right?

We all know the type of person who always needs to be right. It is draining and can destroy a relationship. Can you set aside your own wants and needs for the greater good of the relationship?

Are you still in love with your ex?

Do you stalk him/her on social media? Do you care if she/he is dating someone new? Do you think about your ex all the time. If so, you are not ready for a new relationship and should consider professional help to move forward. We know your friends are exhausted of hearing about your drama.

Do you share a common vision or belief system?

There is nothing wrong with not liking or wanting children – it’s not for everyone, and it doesn’t automatically exclude you from being seen as marriage material. However, you have to keep in mind that if you’re dating someone who wants children, or who has children already, and you don’t like children, then it won’t matter how much you are in love, it’ll never work.

Can you remain faithful?

This is not to say that once a cheater, always a cheater – but most people who are repeatedly unfaithful in relationships don’t change unless they truly are ready and they want to. But if you haven’t finished sowing your oats, then remain single until you can remain faithful.

Are you ready for a lifelong partnership?

Maintaining a long-term relationship requires compromise, so if you can’t handle not having everything your way, your relationship will not progress smoothly. Compromise includes everything from family decisions to finances, in-laws and even domestic chores.

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Are You Sure You’re Ready To Get Married?  was originally published on hellobeautiful.com