Being a single Parent should never be a hindrance; not to you, not to your career, and especially not to love. If you’re lucky to find a love that stands the test of time, why should you let it go? However, before deciding to tie the knot with your Partner, you should ask yourself these difficult questions. This will help you really get a good grasp on the future you’re embarking on.

Is Your Partner Willing to Change Diapers or Handle Teenage Angst?

You are a parent. You have to make sure that your partner knows that before you get married. That means dealing with a child that isn’t theirs and grooming them to be fine adults. Does your partner have the makings of a great parent, or are they at least willing to become one?

Is Your Partner Okay with Your Independence?

If you’ve been a single parent for long, you might be used to doing things on your own; whether that be hanging with your friends, spending time on hobbies, or even parenting your child. However, once you decide on a Marriage, you have to see where your partner comes into all this. Ask whether or not they’re okay with letting you steer your own boat.

Is Your Partner Willing to Pay Your Debt and are You Willing to Pay Theirs?

This is a common issue that arises in most couples, considering that people usually avoid talking about money until it’s too late. In the State of Texas, a marriage is one of the biggest financial agreements you can be part of. You and your partner’s assets, debts, and properties will become community property after marriage, and that’s one factor you have to remember in the unlikely case that you decide to divorce in the future. 

Do You Know How Your Partner was Brought Up?

Are you familiar with your partner well enough to know how his or her family dealt with conflict inside their home? They say how a person was brought up tells a lot about their personality and that includes whether or not plates flew or screaming matches occurred whenever conflict arises. If so, is that the kind of environment you want your children to grow up in?

How Do You See Yourself 10 Years From Now?

What are your personal and relationship goals 10 years into the future? What are your partner’s? You have to ask these seemingly difficult questions to know whether or not your goals align with your future spouse’s. Of course, these can all change over time, but knowing the direction you’re heading towards can help you in the long run. 

Is This Marriage What’s Best for Everyone?

Do you see you and your children benefitting from this marriage, or do you only consider your own happiness? Of course, no child wants an unhappy parent, but they will always play a role in your life and decision-making so keep that in mind.

At this point in your life, you are a parent and a partner, so it’s likely that you have values that you live by and you know that love doesn’t conquer everything. Relationships are commitments as well as choices, but if you vow to choose your partner each morning and take whatever comes your way as a hurdle and not a dead end, then maybe you are ready for marriage.

The post 6 Questions: A Single Parent’s Guide to Marriage appeared first on Texas Divorce and Family Law Blog.