There is a lot of work and planning that goes into a wedding that it might seem becoming a married couple is the end goal. But, that is not where all the work comes to a halt, rather, that’s where it all begins. A lot of thought goes into taking that step in a relationship. Whether you are at the stage of seriously dating or living together, this is a big deal. But, do things have to change once you get married as far as your feelings towards your spouse?

The first to change are the legalities while being married or the obligations you have to each other. Through ups and downs, sickness and in health, you become two people operating together. Marriage commits you to sharing financially, and the terms are no longer avoidable. Taking this leap can solidify your partnership, and it often can change the way two people feel about one another. This can be due to the very open announcement that the two people have made a commitment to each other for a lifetime.

Marriage also intends public accountability and the expectations that one might have with that, either from your family or friends. Your relationship status can change in someone’s eyes, and, depending on your new family, this might bring you more acceptance or respect from those around you. Either way, you become more invested in making things work and to tolerate and solve conflicts that arise.

Marriage also brings permanence. Dealing with a divorce is one of the most stressful experience in an average person’s life, and the end of a marriage is very complicated. Realizing how complicated it can be to break ties might compel partners to stay together and make their relationship work.

Given these realities, there are many things to consider before you decide stepping into marriage. One of them is, how will becoming a married couple change the way you deal with each other and how you manage your financials? Will it force you to be more protected, or will it create chaos? If either of you were married before or have children already, how will tying the knot affect them? Sometimes children from previous marriages can actually solidify the family unit.

Finally, if you have experienced divorce before, you might still be in shock from the destruction of your last marriage and the fear of making another mistake. In this way, your past may be holding you back from your future. Knowing what you can stand to gain can help you determine whether or not marriage is right for you.

While marriage might feel similar to living together, it can bring a sense of security or comfort that did not exist before. Life is now about two partners dedicated to being together. If you get to the point of marriage, hopefully your experience is fulfilling.