If you're in a relationship, this is for you.

Congratulations! You’re in a relationship with someone you trust your life with. If I ask you to summarize your happiness in a few words, I know that’s not possible. Doesn’t matter if you are a talkative or an introvert. That’s the beauty of the relationship; you can’t get enough of it. All the ups and downs that you and your partner faced to convince your parents, arranging finances, looking for a matching and best outfit to wear during different rituals and ceremonies, is all worth it. I know I am not wrong here. I can see you blushing already! Okay, moving on…

While you’ve experienced the ups and downs while marrying the person you love(doesn’t matter if it’s an arranged marriage or a love marriage), you already understood the hint that it’s going to be like that. Yes, the rest of your lives. My intention here is not to scare you but to enlighten you and make you future-ready to be more open and planned. And don’t worry, you will do great. Of Course you will, you married a wonderful person.

Hey, Ups and downs are common among us. Either if it’s individual, personal, or a collective group goal, there’s always ups and downs. While the work to be happy with your better half is always in progress, how good are you managing it? In other words, do you have a plan if something unexpected happens. (As you know, life has both - happiness and sadness). In this article, I will majorly focus on the important factors that you should consider as a base/benchmark to lead a sustainable happy life. (Even a luxurious one, if possible).

1. Joint Account - As soon as you’re married, open a joint account. This will act as an address proof where you decide to stay. Both can contribute towards your common goals and vacations.

2. Budget your spendings - I know it’s boring but it’s a lifesaver. Budget how much you’d want to spend on groceries, entertainment, dining outside, travel expenses, daily spendings, etc… You would be surprised once you sit with your partner at the end of the month and revisit. If both are working, both should contribute. The contribution can differ from couple to couple based on the income, will, and commitments.

3. Investments - I CANNOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH! Here are the things you should invest first before spending any penny from your salary or from other sources of income:

   1. A retirement plan is in place.

   2. Long term investments are made (For : Saving on Tax, future goals, children education, health, vacations, business etc)

   3. You have a roof over your head. Doesn’t matter if you’ve rented it out or are living in your own house.

   4. Insurance: This should be your first priority ( I’ve mentioned it last to get your attention). A TERM insurance to support your family when you’re gone and a HEALTH insurance to support and save you from all those unexpected dents that could come later. Why? One word. COVID.

4. Vacations - Don’t take it lightly. Doesn’t matter if your other partner is a housewife or househusband. Everyone deserves a break. Break from the routine to get back on track. Break from the daily tantrums to reset our emotions. Break from the stress to rejuvenate and be open to new ideas. If possible, plan your vacations ahead. It will save you some money.

5. Respect - (Again, mentioned it at the last to get your attention on this). If you’ve the mindset that “Love is everything and that’s all is needed for a relationship to sustain”, I am sorry but you need to change your mind on this. When you express love or seek an apology after a fight, the first thing that our mind unconsciously focuses upon is - RESPECT. Yes, would it be okay for you when your partner brings you a chocolate and places it on the table? Don’t you expect something here? I hope you got the point!

Please note that these are the base/benchmarks to get you started on a good path. Of course, it’s not a “worry-free” plan but it will help you worry less about your future. All the best!