By Qurratulain Zaheer
Moving in with your partner is a huge step; it will test all aspects of your relationship and teach you a lot about yourself in the process. Whilst it may appear to be glamorous and fun, the initial move can be quite stressful. There is always a transitional adjustment period which breaks and has broken many relationships. It can turn into a nightmare, so there are some things that you might want to get out of the way beforehand. Living together means that you will be exposed to all of your partners bad habits, you will find out things that you probably did not want to know and it can sometimes end very badly. Now to prevent you getting on each other’s nerves or from getting into an argument, I have compiled a few quick tips to help you ease into the process:
1. Discuss money
Money is always a taboo because we’re taught not to discuss it. For this reason, it has become an awkward topic, but it is crucial for you to discuss finances. Discuss whose name is going on the lease, whether or not you are going to open a joint account and who will be paying for the weekly shop. Get these things out in the open because you don’t want to be having these conversation months after you have moved in. Also remember to establish a balance; you don’t want him to have to pay for everything. Discuss everything beforehand and set some ground rules.
2. Invest in good storage
This one is absolutely mandatory! We always have too many clothes, I’m not even going to try and justify it. But sharing wardrobe space with your partner limits the space that you have for your own clothes. This always means that you need to downsize your collection or find other locations for your clothes. Now, as girls, getting rid of clothes is just a no-go. Instead, search for storage solutions and utilise the space that you do have. Divan beds are usually great because they have drawers underneath. Another option is customised fitted wardrobes as they fit into your current space. This is great for odd shaped rooms that you ordinarily would not be able to maximise. The more storage space you have, the easier your life is going to be. It also means that you don’t have to sort through your clothes or get rid of anything!
3. Redecorate
Our rooms are always personalised and act as a representation of us. Now you may be moving into his place or vice versa so you need to ensure that there is a balance within the space. Redecorate the place so he feels included and make sure that it’s not too girly! Or if you are moving into his, add a few mason jars around the room to give it that feminine touch. Fairy lights are always a great idea. Alternatively if you are moving into an entirely new place, you can bond with your partner and come up with ideas to decorate. This can be a great experience and a way for you to turn your new home into a little haven.
4. Have your own space
Living together means that you will always be around the other person. Make sure that you schedule in activities with other people. The saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder” exists for a reason! You need space every now and then—it’s unhealthy to be around each other all of the time. You also need to ensure that he has time to himself; there must always be a balance! This will prevent you getting sick of each other, making your relationship last longer.
5. Establish house rules
This one is absolutely crucial. While things like chores may be tedious to discuss, you need to talk about them. Come up with a rota to prevent arguments. Share the housework and embrace any differences. Talking things out beforehand just helps to clarify what will happen and this way when you are actually living there, you will feel slightly more at ease.
Whilst the move may be quite daunting, remember that it is just a case of compromise and perseverance. You may get sick of him leaving socks all over the floor, but after a few weeks, it will become second nature.
About Qurratulain Zaheer
This article was written by Qurratulain Zaheer, an avid lover of interior design and organisation. She recommends Hammonds Space for affordable fitted wardrobes.
Moving in together with your partner is a really special and exciting moment in a person’s life. These are some great tips that might be very helpful for the couple who are planning to move in together! Thumbs up!