Hello, question asker. I'm Evan.
From what the questioner says, it seems like they and their boyfriend have a good relationship. But, they're worried about what life will be like in the future marriage, which is making them feel anxious and fearful about marriage. There are lots of negative examples in reality, which are making the questioner feel pressured.
If you're dating someone who's older than you, it can be tough to think about your future life together. How can you manage your negative emotions and navigate your future marriage?
Here, give the questioner a little pat on the shoulder to show you're there for them. When talking to your current boyfriend, you can calmly, sincerely, and clearly state your feelings and talk about things that matter to you. Since the questioner asked the question on the platform, I'll also give the questioner some quick advice here:
Do your best to support each other.
Show your interest and support for your boyfriend's decision by responding clearly. Make eye contact with your boyfriend and nod your head to show you're listening and support him.
When he talks about something or asks you a question, don't respond with words like "hmm" or "it doesn't matter." Listen to what he has to say, ask a relevant question, tell him you support the decision he has made, or share something about yourself and ask him to support you as well.
Showing your interest and support, or your "bias" towards your boyfriend, is the foundation of maintaining a good relationship.
If your boyfriend brings up something emotionally charged, you can support him and help him through it. For example, if he says he had a fight with his boss, don't immediately dismiss him. Find out what happened and support him in his decision.
You could say something like, "That's awful! I feel so sorry that you're going through something like that."
"How can I help?"
Discuss your relationship or future plans.
The questioner can often discuss your relationship with your boyfriend or the vision of life after marriage and share your feelings about how things have progressed. Ask your boyfriend how your relationship has developed over time to get the conversation started.
Have some relationship discussions and future discussions: "What made you first think that we should start dating? What is the biggest change you've noticed in me since we started dating?"
"What are my strengths and weaknesses as a girlfriend? How can I improve?"
"What are your thoughts on our future together? What are your plans for the future?"
"I've been thinking about the future. Would you like to talk about it?"
Have a calm, objective discussion about your relationship with your boyfriend.
If your relationship with your boyfriend is facing some challenges, try to keep an objective and calm tone when discussing the relationship. It's important to remain open-minded and avoid getting emotional.
It's important to focus on building a stronger relationship, not attacking each other.
If she wants to tell her boyfriend that the engagement is bothering her, she can say, "Don't think I'm being picky. I care about you and our relationship, and I just want our relationship to be perfect."
"If you want to marry me, you'll have to wait until I'm ready."
It's important to face the emotional issues head on.
It might seem easier to let things take their natural course and avoid difficult topics. However, avoiding these issues will only make things worse.
Instead, take the time to talk through the issue. You could say, "I know you're upset about what happened the other day."
"I'd really appreciate it if we could find some time to talk."
Remember, avoiding these difficult issues will only make things slowly get worse and eventually destroy your relationship. Tell him, "I think we can have a calm and honest talk about our problems."
"Or, I need to talk to you about the engagement, and I hope you can keep an open mind."
Think about whether you're avoiding talking about your feelings. If so, try to figure out why and explain it to him.
Tell him, "I know I've been under a lot of pressure lately with the engagement. I've thought about why this is, and I think it's a defense mechanism."
"I've always been the type to think a lot, and I feel pressure and confusion about the future. I hope that couples can be honest with each other, and I hope you can discuss this with me patiently."
Be patient.
If you run into any issues, it's best to communicate in a patient and compassionate manner. The person asking the question should be understanding and try to convey their thoughts to their boyfriend.
If there's a conflict or a problem, stay calm and try to understand the other person. You could say, for example, "I don't want to put too much pressure on you."
I hope we can talk through this calmly and honestly, and I hope you can listen to me patiently.
"
Be open and honest about what you want to achieve.
When it comes to emotionally tricky topics, it's best to be open and honest. Whether you're looking to improve the relationship or tackle a problem head-on, it's important to be upfront and clear about your intentions.
For instance, you could say, "I'd like to discuss whether our relationship can last. Do you have any plans for our future married life?"
How can we maintain consistency in our married life? Are you ready to get married now?
Ask him, "Can we talk about the future of our marriage? I sometimes really feel neglected."
"Because I'm feeling a bit nervous about the future, I hope you can reassure me and give me confidence. I hope you can appreciate my feelings."
You're about to embark on married life. In a marriage, honest communication is key to a long-lasting relationship. Love, respect, and courtesy are essential for a happy married life.
Be honest with your loved one and show them you understand and appreciate them.
I hope this helps!
Comments
I understand your concerns about marriage. It's natural to feel scared when you see so many negative examples around. Yet, every relationship is unique, and it seems like you have a solid foundation with your boyfriend. Perhaps focusing on the positive aspects of your relationship and discussing your fears openly with him can help ease your worries.
It's commendable that you're thinking deeply about your future. The fear of what could go wrong in marriage is valid, but remember, communication is key. Since you two are already planning towards marriage and he has been supportive, consider sharing your anxieties with him. Together, you might find ways to build more confidence in facing this next step.
The doubts you have are common, especially given the societal pressures and examples of failed marriages. However, it sounds like you have a loving partner who is committed to you. Maybe try setting small goals or milestones for your relationship before marriage, like living together, to gradually gain more assurance. Talking to a counselor might also provide guidance and help you process these feelings.