Congratulations! You’re engaged! Now what? You could spend the next few months obsessing over floral arrangements and arguing over the guest list. OR you could use this time wisely to prepare for something far more important, YOURSELF.
Marriage isn’t just about merging bank accounts and stealing each other’s hoodies. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself before you say, “I do.” So, let’s get into it: 7 personal goals to set before marriage (because trust me, your future self will thank you).
1. Master the Art of Compromise (Without Losing Your Soul)
If you think compromise means giving in to everything your partner wants, congratulations! You’re about to be very miserable. Instead, learn how to negotiate like a pro.
Solution: Take an online negotiation course like Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss or invest in a couple’s communication workbook. Because “where do we order dinner from?” should NOT lead to WWIII.
2. Get Your Finances in Check (Before It Gets Messy)
Love won’t pay the rent, and joint bank accounts have a funny way of revealing spending habits you never knew existed. Take control of your finances now before the “Why did you buy ANOTHER pair of shoes?” fights begin.
Solution: Use a budgeting app like YNAB (You Need A Budget) or take a money management course. Because broke and stressed is NOT the newlywed glow you want.
3. Develop a Guilt-Free Self-Care Routine
If you think your partner will be your 24/7 emotional support system, think again. Your mental health is YOUR responsibility. Build a self-care routine that doesn’t involve waiting for permission.
Solution: Subscribe to a wellness box like TheraBox or invest in a guided meditation app. Because a happy you = a happy relationship.
4. Set Boundaries with Family (Yes, Even Your Mom)
If your mom is planning your wedding like it’s her big day, imagine what she’ll do when you have kids. Setting healthy boundaries with family is a skill you need yesterday.
Solution: Read Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab and practice saying, “I love you, but we’ve got this.” (And mean it.)
5. Learn How to Cook at Least Three Decent Meals
You don’t have to be a five-star chef, but surviving on takeout and microwave meals forever? Not ideal. At least learn a few go-to dishes that don’t involve instant noodles.
Solution: Subscribe to HelloFresh or grab Chrissy Teigen’s Cravings cookbook. Because “What’s for dinner?” should NOT be a daily existential crisis.
6. Get Comfortable with Alone Time
Your partner is amazing, but they are NOT your everything. (Harsh, but true.) Learn to enjoy your own company because clinginess is only cute for about five minutes.
Solution: Pick up a hobby that’s just for YOU, painting, reading, yoga, anything. Bonus points if it doesn’t involve scrolling through their Instagram likes.
7. Learn How to Fight Fair (Because Arguments WILL Happen)
If you think you and your fiancé will never fight, that’s adorable. The reality? Disagreements are inevitable, but how you handle them makes all the difference.
Solution: Check out The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman. Because screaming “YOU ALWAYS DO THIS!” is NOT a conflict-resolution strategy.
Invest in Yourself Now, Thank Yourself Later
Marriage is incredible, but it’s also work. The best gift you can give your future spouse? A version of you that’s prepared, confident, and totally thriving.
Which of these goals are you working on before the big day? Let me know in the comments!