Single? How To Resist The Pressure To Get Married
Our expert offers five tips on how to deal with opinionated friends and family members!
Are you starting to feel judged by friends and family about your single status? Is your mom prying into your love life? Are all of your girl friends tying to hook you up with single guys they know? Don't give into the pressure! I have many friends who pressure me to get into a relationship and get married right away, but I know that would be a big mistake. If you're in a similiar situation, here are six tips on how to deal with friends who are pressuring you to get married and start a family:
1. Most importantly, know what you want to do. Think about it and determine for yourself what is the best for you. I decided that I don't want to be married for the sake of being married. I want to be with someone I love, rather than just settling with anyone.
2. Next, tell your friends. Once you know where you stand, you need to communicate your intentions to your friends so they'll get off your back. Explain to them that you don't want to do what it is they are asking you to do. Give them reasons on why you feel this way. Be willing to answer their questions so they understand where you are coming from. I try to do this when my friends give me a hard time.
3. And don't sway under peer pressure. Some people will continue to argue with you, and this is where you need to show that you mean business. I learned not to give into their arguments. Do what is best for you and stand with your decision.
4. Distance yourself from people who do not respect your decisions. If your friends really like you, they need to respect you. Nobody wants to be with people who are trying to get them to do something they don't want to do.
5. Remember that it is not a race. Marriage is not something to be rushed into. Marrying the wrong person can have a toll on your mental health, your happiness, and your pocketbook. You're better off taking your time and going at a pace you are comfortable with. If some of your friends can't support you, then you need to find people who will.
You have to realize that your friends can't make the choice. This is about the rest of your life and it's important not to let someone else tell you how to live your life. Your friends may have good intentions, but you have to do what is best for you in the long term.
Stan Popovich is the author of A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods, an easy-to-read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional information go to: www.managingfear.com.
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