Deciding to move in together shows that you are in a serious stage in a relationship. Of course, you might feel different emotions, such as joy or anxiety. Moving together has the potential to strengthen a relationship. However, it can mar the relationship if it’s not the right time. We ask ourselves, “How do I know when it is the right time to move in?”. Let’s look at the factors to see if the decision to live together could be for you.
You Know Each Other’s Habits
Before deciding to move in together, the two individuals’ life schedules and habits should be in sync. Every human connection implies compromise, so understanding how the other person works can help set the proper expectations. Have you been together long enough to understand how your partner reacts to stress and how they feel about chores?
One way to know this is if couples spend their weekends together or even go to sleep at their partner’s place. If you learn to live with their habits and enjoy minor quirks that you might otherwise notice, then it’s good. However, if you’re starting to learn how to share living space without infringing on each other’s space, it is wise to wait a bit longer before concluding to move in together.
It’s Time to Build a Future Together
Living together should not be a trial stage or something for later in the relationship; it should be the next logical step. If you are both talking about life plans, it shows that you are ready to build something more serious, like marriage or children. On the other hand, moving in could come across as a rush. This decision should not be sudden but should be worked towards over time.
It would feel too soon or rushed if you are still occupying the ‘commitment limbo or you are in the let’s just try the relationship and see’ stage. The idea of cohabitating is heavily based on time and effort. You’d ideally like to be on the same page about where your lives are headed. If you both agree with that plan, you can progress to the next level of cohabitation.
You Can Be Completely Honest.
When a couple moves in together, they are no longer managing dates or romantic weekends; they are managing money, work schedules, and chores. Do you have the ability to discuss contentious issues without necessarily having to quarrel or avoid one another? Are both of you willing to express your wants and needs? If the answer is yes, you are likely to move to the next level of the relationship; that is, you can move in together.
You should be open and honest about finances, share chores and bills, and envision the future. It is crucial to prepare for the negotiation and make sure that both parties have a certain level of understanding. If you can talk about these things without getting into a big fight, you are already building a good foundation for cohabitation.
Final Thoughts
Finally, determining the right time to move in together is a highly personal decision. However, the other signs listed above can help if you and your partner feel ready to share a space and are comfortable with each other’s habits, communication, and plans. It might just be the perfect time. Moving in will be a new chapter—the new beginning—establishing something wonderful and enriching. Go at your own pace and move in when you think it is the right time in both of your lives.
