Well the good news is that if you're questioning if you're ready for a relationship, you probably are ready to start a relationship for the first time.
Because of the emotional toll that a relationship can have on you, it is important that you take the proper steps to be as prepared as possible.
While it is nearly impossible to predict the outcome of a relationship, here are 7 questions you can ask yourself before entering a relationship for the first time.
1.
Am I selfish? Many relationships fall apart because one or both people refuse to compromise.
Not only is this childish, but it's unrealistic.
It is impossible for you to get your way all of the time, so being able to compromise so both you and your significant other are happy is important.
2.
Am I happy single? Sometimes when people want a relationship, they just want someone to boost their self esteem and confidence.
The best partners are those who know how to be happy when they are alone, and can thrive when they are with people they love.
You should not rely on someone else to give you self-worth.
If you are hoping that a significant other can make you feel worth, you will never feel satisfies in a relationship.
3.
Am I realistic about a partner? Think about the type of person you want to date.
Now honestly answer if that type of person would want to date you.
Let's face the facts, no one is perfect, so you shouldn't trick yourself into thinking that you can only be happy with a nearly perfect person.
Cut people some slack and people will cut you slack.
4.
Am I ready to fall in love? This one is simple because if you aren't ready for the possibility of love, then you are not ready for a relationship.
There is always the possibility that you will fall in love, even if you aren't expecting it.
However, if you've shut out love before the relationship starts, you are being unfair to your would-be partner.
5.
Am I tired of dating with no commitment? If you've grown tired of going on a few dates with someone and never hearing from them again, then you are probably ready for a longer commitment.
A real relationship is nice because it gives you the security of knowing you no longer have to go on dead end dates.
6.
Am I easily swayed by the beliefs and opinions of others? This is important because when you are dating someone, their beliefs and values usually become your beliefs and values.
If you are both on the same page, that is not a problem because as the Bible says 'iron sharpens iron' so when you are dating someone who shares your values, your relationship will flourish.
However, even if you are dating a fellow Christian, it is likely that they will have some very different beliefs.
Prior to entering a relationship, you have to make the decision to stick to your standards even if it means ending the relationship.
7.
Am I prepared for possible heartbreak? Every relationship has its ups and downs.
And although breakups are never easy to handle, it is best to mentally prepare yourself for heartbreak.
This is not to say that you should expect the relationship to fail, but you have to guard your heart in case things don't go as planned.