Dating, committed to each other, engaged, married, all these stages of relationships can add joy and love to your life. Not all is easy; the more serious, the more effort if takes to make things work.
A good relationship begins when each individual is a complete person. Having emotional maturity, personal goals, and at least having a plan toward financial independence is beneficial. Work on yourself as much as you work on the relationship. Know your strong points and admit to your shortcomings. As each person grows and improves, the relationship can evolve. The next step in forming a good relationship is a balance of power; one person should not be dominant making the other dependent. Understanding each other is paramount, plus knowing how to discuss each others's needs and to compromise when advisable.
Having a variety of relationships before forming a committed relationship is a good idea. Casual dating can then lead to a more serious relationship. You can learn which qualities you like in a person and which you don't. Beware when a person irritates you; this personality trait may never change or even get worse. Admit when a relationship needs to be dissolved. Each one of you can have a chance to make a better match.
Being romantic too soon can cloud perspective. You can be physically attracted to many people, but get to know each other before going too far. Some say love is blind which often rings true.
Enjoy each other as you take each step in building a relationship.
