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Signs of Love: 6 Ways to Know When You’re Ready to Propose
Are you getting tired of people asking if you’re next or when you’re going to get married? For some, figuring out when to pop the question isn’t an issue at all, but for others, knowing whether or not they should take the plunge, and when, is a bit more challenging. Consider the following to help you figure out if you’re ready to propose.
Have You Discussed Your Future?
If you and your significant other have sincerely discussed your future together, then there’s a good sign you are both ready for a proposal. If you haven’t discussed marriage, or your future in general, then gradually work your way up to it and see if it’s something on her mind as well.
Check Your Finances
The average amount spent on an engagement ring in 2015 was $5,273. If you’re getting ready to pop the question you should make sure you have a budget in mind and can afford to purchase a ring without putting yourself into too much debt. If your girlfriend is expecting for you to propose and you already share finances, this may be something you can discuss together.
You’re Getting Hints
Some women may be a little more obvious than others when it comes to wanting a proposal. Whether she’s leaving wedding magazines around the house, or talking about her favorite blue sapphire wedding ring every chance she gets, if she’s leaving hints she’s ready…but are you? If you don’t mind the hints, then you are likely ready to pop the question. However, if the hints bother you or make you want to look the other way, chances are you aren’t quite ready for the next step.
What Will They Say?
Consider how you think your girlfriend will respond to a proposal. If you think there’s a chance she will say no, then take a step back and hold off until you feel more confident that it will for sure be a yes.
Trust Your Instinct
If you just have that feeling that this is the woman you want to spend the rest of your life with, then the answer is simple, you’re ready. Even if you have this magical feeling, you should still consider the above before proposing to make sure that both of you are ready for the next step.
Asking Permission
While some men may skip this step, others find the tradition of asking your girlfriend’s father for permission to have her hand in marriage as a crucial step before proposing. If you are comfortable with speaking to her father, or parents, and asking for their blessing, then you’ve got another sign that you’re ready to propose.
If you aren’t too crazy about asking permission, and you know it’s something she would like for you to do, then you may want to take some time and build your relationship with her father so you will be more confident and comfortable when the time does come.
There are many things you can think about and do in order to prep yourself for a marriage proposal, but what it really comes down to is how you feel about this woman and if you see a future with her. If you do, then get out there and find that perfect ring for her!
Brooke Doherty is a relationship therapist who studied psychology. She enjoys getting men to open up on their feelings and often writes for guys lifestyle sites offering tips and advice for creating better relationships.
