Figuring out the right time to pop the question isn't always straightforward — but sometimes, it is.

 

If you’re wondering “should I propose?”, look for these signs to help you decide!

1. You speak in “we” vs. “I”

It may seem like a small grammatical change, but it’s actually huge. You see you and your partner as a unit, not just as individuals—and that’s an important step toward marriage.

2. You either live together or spend so much time together you might as well

If you can stand all of your partner’s potentially annoying habits day in and day out, chances are marriage is in your future.

3. You’ve talked about starting a family together

Wondering “should I propose?” The “should we have kids” discussion is pretty key.

4. Your family calls your S.O. more than you

If your family loves your partner, it’s a great sign of a successful in-law relationship (and if they haven't met yet, get on it!).

5. You're not afraid to "let it all hang out" around them

In the early stages of a relationship, you'll likely want to look your best 100 percent of the time. Once you've settled into a comfortable relationship, you're not afraid to let your partner see you in your ratty sweats or with your night retainer in. 

6. You always consult each other before making big plans

You care about each other’s opinion and want to spend as much time together as possible.

7. They’re always the first person you go to with good or bad news

A big part of a successful marriage is feeling comfortable discussing all types of subjects with your partner. If you’re asking yourself “should I propose?” think about if you’d feel comfortable discussing personal and sensitive topics with your partner. If the answer is yes, it’s a sign of a good match.

8. You could easily guess the passwords to their Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest

Maybe don’t actually try this, but it’s another sign of how well you know your partner.

9. You know exactly what will push their buttons

Arguments and disagreements are a part of even the strongest relationships. Knowing what will tick your partner off—and what will make them feel better—means that you are in tune with your partner’s personality.

10. You’re learning about each other’s religious beliefs and culture

If culture and religion is a big part of your lives, learning about each other’s cultural beliefs is an important step toward starting a life together.  

11. Run-of-the-mill activities like grocery shopping are 10x more fun with them

If your partner can make even the lamest situations awesome, you’re in it to win it.

12. You’ve seen them at their very worst and love them anyway

A long and healthy marriage is sure to have its ups—and definitely its downs. If you’ve supported your partner during difficult times such as an illness, job issues, or family drama, it means that you’re well-suited for wedded bliss.

13. You know exactly what style engagement ring you’re going to buy them

If you’ve already started researching engagement rings, it’s clear that you’re ready to propose.

14. Their friends have become your friends

Marriage isn’t just about having a great relationship with your partner. It’s also about developing a good rapport with their loved ones. 

15. You’re clear on each other’s career and/or education goals

Your and your partner’s education and career will play a major role in your future together. Will your partner stay at his or her current job for a while or plan on switching careers? Will they be traveling often for work?   

16. They’re the only person that can cheer you up when you’re having a bad day

Your partner knows how to make you happy no matter what—you’re clearly meant to be!

17. You know about their past relationships

While you don't have to know every gory detail of your partner's past breakups, it's still important to know about your partner's former relationships and why they ended.

18. You’ve finally figured out how to be in the same room when your favorite teams play each other

While you don’t have to agree on your sports loyalties, you at least understand each other’s passions.

19. You can spend hours in a car with them and never get bored

Again, it’s all about loving each other, whether you’re relaxing on a beach or stuck in a car together for 10 hours.

20. You truly can’t picture your life without them

In the end, this is the sign that matters most.