Moving In Together

So you're in a solid relationship and things are going well; you've gone on trips, met the parents, you're toothbrush is in the bathroom and there's a change of clothes in the top drawer. You've feel like taking the next step, so you ask yourself: is it time to move in together? Don't panic, we're not talking about investing in any Middlesex, Ontario real estate, but if your relationship is evolving, maybe it's time to take the next step?

Though in the grand scheme of things it may sound small, moving in together can be a make-or-break part of any relationship, and there are many positives and negatives to evaluate before deciding if it's time to "take the plunge". The first thing to be aware of when moving in with anybody, let alone your partner, is that ever so slowly, you'll begin to see the not-so-sweet side of that person. Families fight because they get sick of seeing one another every day, not because there's a lack of love in the room. When you move in with your partner, be aware that even something as small as buying the wrong aquarium fish food could spark a fight that ends up with a cold night on the couch. Don't let this disparage you, however; spending more time with your loved one gives you the chance to find out more about them, and if you can make it past the first few months together, than just maybe you'll make it to the wedding facilities in Mississauga after all.

Also be aware of how the dynamics in your relationship will change. When you both had a private place to retreat to after a day (or night) together, you both had your personal space. When you move in together, however, you may feel that you don't have any time to yourself, and you might come to blame your partner for that... not good. The solution is simple: make sure you have an escape. Go out for a beer with the guys (or a cosmo with the gals), take a jog around the park, take a class at a faux painting school, or retire to the study with a book. One of the most valuable things when living with your partner is making time for yourself, so that you don't get sick of them and they don't get sick of you!

Things change all the time, and relationships are no different. The person you first met and fell in love with won't be the person you know ten years down the road. Don't let that be a negative, however; falling in love is about the little things, the quirks and faults you find in one another. You can discover some of these living apart, but you won't know your partner completely until you take that plunge and move in together. If you're ever going to make it to that Mississauga resale home, test the waters to make sure you're a good fit for each other.