Life can be challenging, but having someone by your side can make it all the more enjoyable. Having a life partner means you don't have to dance through life's adventures alone. It sounds wonderful, right?
One way to make this dream come true is by getting married. However, it's essential to remember that even though love conquers a lot, marriage isn't just about sharing a bed. This is especially true if you're considering tying the knot at a young age.
Now, there's nothing wrong with marrying young. But let's clarify that when we say "young," we don't mean underage, as that can have harmful effects on your biological and psychological health.
Child marriage or marrying underage is very risky. Studies have shown that those who marry too young may face issues like stunted offspring, increased divorce rates, and health problems like osteoporosis. Unfortunately, it's often women who suffer the most from underage marriage.
On the other hand, marrying at a young age, typically recommended at 21 for women and 25 for men by BKKBN, tends to be safer in terms of reproductive health. But remember, marriage is a profound commitment that goes beyond biology.
You wouldn't want to regret your decision later on, would you? So, here are some crucial things to ponder before deciding to marry young.
4 Key Considerations Before Tying the Knot Early:
1. Self-Discovery and Knowing Your Partner
Change is inevitable in life. What you once dreamed of may not be the same now. Talents, interests, and habits can evolve as you grow older. After marriage, couples must share an understanding of what they want their future to look like. According to psychologist Dr. Andrea Herber, this can be a challenging task for young people. At a young age, it's not always easy to predict how our partner will support our dreams because we may not even know what we truly want yet. That's why it's essential to start by understanding ourselves.
2. Marriage Isn't an Escape Route
Some young individuals view marriage as a way to escape their current problems. Whether it's avoiding living with parents or dealing with the challenges of college life, they believe that getting married will magically solve these issues. If this is your reason for marriage, you should rethink your decision. Marriage should involve both partners and making such a significant commitment to escape problems isn't a good sign. Marriage is about a partnership, not a solo escape.
3. Living Life in the Fast Lane
Marriage brings about significant changes. From wearing a wedding ring to adjusting your daily routines, it's a big shift. Raffi Bilek, a couples counselor, warns that some young couples regret entering this life stage too quickly. Young souls often have dreams of solo adventures and exploring the world. Marriage, however, may put these dreams on hold as more responsibilities come into play.
4. Embracing the Single Life
Remember the saying, "You don't know what you've got until it's gone"? Well, it applies here, too. Once you tie the knot at a young age, your life may differ significantly from that of your unmarried friends. Friendships change, priorities shift, and your focus may not be solely on you anymore. Fran Greene, author of "Dating Again With Courage and Confidence," suggests that your twenties should be all about you, from your career to your social life. Marriage brings a wonderful partner into your life, but it also comes with its responsibilities and adjustments.
So, before you say "I do" at a young age, take a moment to reflect on these considerations. Marriage is a significant step, and it's crucial to make an informed decision.
By: Fitie Pen Friend, Lilya Windi Pramesti.