According to recent studies, almost half of all marriages in Canada end up in divorce.

That’s a staggering and deeply concerning statistic to read.

Our significant others have a very important role to play in our lives. They can influence our routine, our habits, our thinking, and practically the entire course of our lives. That’s why it is imperative to make a wise choice when it comes to selecting your partner.

But when you’re smitten, can you really see a person objectively?

Most marriages end up in divorce because people don’t consider the long-term consequences of their choices. They make decisions based on their current emotion, and more often than not, the physical attraction takes over their ability to think rationally.

Let’s look at an example:

A girl absolutely loves dogs but her boyfriend is allergic to them. She decides that he’s more important so she gives up her dreams of having pet dogs at home.

The guy loves watching football with his friends, but to spend more time with his girlfriend, he gives up that hobby and spends less time with his friends watching sport.

Initially, it’s all good because they can’t see beyond their love. But as time goes on and the initial rush wears off, they begin to miss what they enjoyed doing before. They begin to think of all of the sacrifices they made for each other so that they could get married.

This slowly grows into resentment and they begin to move away from each other.

When choosing a partner, we have to use our own filter. Does the person allow me to enjoy my time with my friends? Or do they always want me alone for themselves? Do they let me enjoy my hobbies and pursue my passions? Or do they hold me back?

The above story is just a simplified example of what happens in reality. The point here is that you should find someone who complements your life; who walks in and allows you to be yourself and doesn’t stifle your growth.

Notice the little clues a person drops along the way. That will tell you all you need to know about your compatibility. When you make choices based on long-term consequences, you can avoid a lot of mistakes. Marriage after all is not built on just love, it requires mutual understanding, acceptance, respect, and much more.

So, make your choice wisely.