Nine Essential Conversations Before You Say I Do

Getting married is one of the biggest life decisions you can make. It's a beautiful journey filled with love and commitment. However, before you say "I do," there are some essential conversations that you and your partner need to have. These discussions will help you understand each other better, align your future goals, and build a strong foundation for your marriage. Here are nine conversations that you should have before walking down the aisle:

1. Communication:

Good communication is vital for a successful marriage. Talk about how you both express your needs, resolve conflicts, and listen to each other. Discuss your communication styles and any potential challenges you foresee. Understanding each other's communication preferences will improve your ability to tackle disagreements constructively.

2. Finances:

Money matters can create friction in any relationship. Be open and honest about your financial situations, including debts, investments, and spending habits. Discuss your long-term financial goals, such as buying a home, saving for retirement, or starting a family. Planning together will help you avoid potential financial conflicts down the road.

Nine Essential Conversations before You Say I Do

by Gary Thomas(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2286 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	133 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

3. Intimacy:

Intimacy goes beyond physical attraction. Discuss your expectations, desires, and boundaries when it comes to physical and emotional closeness. Talk about your love languages, sexual preferences, and how you both plan to keep the spark alive in your relationship. Open and honest conversations about intimacy will strengthen your emotional connection.

4. Family and Children:

Discuss your views on starting a family, raising children, and your expectations of each other as parents. Talk about your own upbringing and how it has shaped your beliefs. Address any cultural or religious differences that may influence your parenting decisions. Understanding each other's perspectives will help you create a harmonious environment for your future family.

5. Careers and Ambitions:

Talk about your individual career goals and aspirations. Discuss how your careers may impact your lifestyle, financial stability, and the time you can spend together. Address any potential challenges, sacrifices, or relocations that may arise for either of you. Being supportive and understanding of each other's ambitions will strengthen your partnership.

6. Roles and Responsibilities:

Discuss how you both envision your roles and responsibilities within the marriage. Address household chores, decision-making processes, and other expectations. Talk about any traditional or cultural perspectives you may have and find common ground that suits both of you. Agreeing on roles and responsibilities will create a sense of fairness and prevent future conflicts.

7. Health and Well-being:

Talk about your individual health needs and concerns. Discuss any chronic illnesses, mental health issues, or familial health history. Address how you plan to support each other's physical and mental well-being. Being open about your health will foster a supportive and caring environment within your marriage.

8. Conflict Resolution:

Conflict is inevitable in any relationship, so it's important to discuss how you both approach and resolve conflicts. Talk about your strategies for managing disagreements, such as active listening, compromise, or seeking professional help if needed. Developing healthy conflict resolution skills will help you navigate the ups and downs of married life.

9. Long-term Goals and Dreams:

Share your long-term dreams and aspirations with each other. Discuss where you see yourselves in five, ten, or twenty years. Talk about your bucket list items, travel desires, and personal ambitions. Aligning your long-term goals will create a sense of unity and ensure that you're both working towards a common future.

Having these nine essential conversations before you say "I do" will set the stage for a strong and fulfilling marriage. Remember, an open and honest dialogue is key to building a lifelong partnership. Take the time to listen to your partner, respect their opinions, and work together to create a solid foundation for your future together. Marriage is a journey, and having these conversations will ensure that you start off on the right foot.

Nine Essential Conversations before You Say I Do

by Gary Thomas(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2286 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	133 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

In his popular book, 9 Essential Conversations before You Say I Do, author and pastor Gary Thomas, marriage and family therapist Dr. Steve Wilke and Rebecca Wilke, EdD help couples explore:

• What marriage means to each individual and whether this is a wise match
• How to engage in essential relational pursuits such as healthy conflict, sexual intimacy, and spiritual intimacy
• How to discuss in advance crucial aspects of marriage such as childrearing, finances, and marital roles
• Why asking hard questions now is better than asking them five years from now

 
With thoughtful questions that encourage couples to examine themselves and their relationships, 9 Essential Conversations before You Say I Do will help couples thrive not only in the early months of their marriage but also in the years to come.
 
Includes Guides and Questions.