Marrying the love of your life is a dream-come-true moment for everyone. The initial days of a marriage are beautiful and exciting, with countless precious memories. If you are wondering what happens during the first six months of a relationship, this post is for you.
The first six months of a relationship, also known as the ‘honeymoon stage,’ is filled with joy and excitement. It is time you and your partner spend so much time together and know each other on a deeper level. You go out more often, travel, and craft beautiful memories together. You understand your partner’s likes and dislikes and pave the stone for a strong relationship.
However, the first six months of a relationship or courtship can also be a testing time for the couple. When a couple lives under one roof and spends so much time together, there is a scope for fights and arguments. The differences in ideals and philosophy of the couple come to the fore and may cause friction. Here we list down things that happen in the first six months of a relationship.
Key Pointers
- You may want to spend most of your time with each other during the first six months of your marriage.
- As you get comfortable with each other, you might begin to share your deepest secrets and feelings.
- You may also experience some disagreements and fights as you get to know each other more.
Why Is The Six-Month Milestone Important?
Image: IStock
There is something magical about the first six months after marriage. You are excited that the beginning of your life together is like a white canvas that can be painted with colors of your choice!
Amidst the excitement of the newly married life, you also learn a few valuable lessons. You learn to tolerate a whole new set of annoying habits, navigate through a nasty fight, and come out strong.
If you have crossed the six months mark with lots of happy memories and a few setbacks, then you’ve reached a significant milestone in your relationship. You are no longer blinded by love but are still in love with each other.
Things That Might Happen During The First Six Months Of Marriage
Your life could go through many changes during the first six months of marriage. Some changes could be uncomfortable, while some will be magical.
- You will experience the joy of marrying your partner, your favorite person. You will feel lucky to have someone you call ‘mine’ in your life every day. And when the relationship and romance bring out the best in both of you, the quality of life improves.
Love keeps growing in the first six months. Mila, a writer and wife, shares her experience of her initial years of marriage. She says, “Life with my husband is amazing. I love being married to him. I still don’t quite know how I lucked out so much in the husband’s department, but I did. I love him more and more every day. Doing my best to know him better each day is the most exciting thing in my life (i)!”
- You would want to spend most of your time together. You want to talk to them about everything, and wouldn’t want work or family to disrupt your privacy or ‘alone time’. Even the silence between you would be comfortable; you’re just happy being with each other and need no distractions or entertainment.
- After getting married, you get to know each other better. You find out about your partner’s obsessions, habits, and such intimate things. You will be comfortable opening up about sensitive things such as how crazy your family is, or the troubles you faced as a child. Both you and your partner feel safe enough to disclose anything in confidence which enhances your bonding and emotional attachment with each other.
- You become comfortable with each other. Of course, you were comfortable earlier too, but after the six month milestone, the comfort level and fondness will reach a whole new level. For example, you wouldn’t mind waking up with messy hair or sharing a toilet. You discuss gross stuff and are okay with it.
Your relationship is now at a phase where you prefer things to be real rather than presentable or nice. You also do not hide your weaknesses or quirky habits. Whether it is your fear of horror movies or your unmanageable craving for chocolate, you will be okay letting your partner know about them.
- You will have a few serious fights. This is the downside of getting comfortable with each other. You no longer have to pretend to like things you dislike or face uncomfortable situations for the sake of your partner. This could get you both into some serious arguments, but then, you both will also learn how not to sweat the little things but function as a couple even with unresolved issues.
Image: IStock
- You don’t mind being vulnerable with each other. Gone are the days when you both used to hide flaws and pretend to be perfect all the time. Now, you don’t mind shedding a tear or have an ugly cry in front of your partner.
- Your family just got bigger. Marriage is a union of not only two people, but also two families. You visit your new family for the holidays or meet them once a week or month over dinner. Your families may also be happy to spend time together and see you grow as a couple.
- You will feel your partner is ‘the one.’ Your instinct will tell you that you are with the right person. There will be many incidents which will make you go “aww…. he likes me a lot,” or “God! She is mine!” and the best part is your partner will also feel the same.
The honeymoon phase is sweet, but it will only last for a limited period. Even though things will no longer be as peachy as before, you will be glad that you got to experience that rollercoaster ride only to come out much stronger.
However, not all couples find themselves in a strong relationship after the honeymoon phase. For some, the initial attraction might fade away soon as reality starts to catch up. And they find themselves making some unintentional mistakes.
8 Relationship Problems You Are Likely To Encounter Within Six Months Of Marriage
Sometimes, you might end up doing things that can sabotage the relationship and turn things bitter within these six months of togetherness. Recognizing and addressing the red flags early can help prevent future disagreements. Here are eight problems couples might face during the honeymoon period.
- Assuming things: When your partner does something that upsets you, talk to them, and understand their perspective. The first rule is not to assume things, because, often, the reality could be completely different from what you’ve imagined.
- Insecurities: You might sometimes wonder if your partner really loves you. Though they love you, they may not be able to express it all the time. Do not let your insecurities get the best of you and start doubting your relationship.
Such doubts are normal during the initial stages of your new relationship when you are still getting to know each other.
- Spying: If there is no need to doubt your partner, then do not go snooping around and questioning their every move. If your partner feels that you do not trust them, it could change the equation in your relationship. While it is foolishness to ignore serious infidelity, it is equally bad to suspect without any reason.
Image: IStock
- Not putting effort: A relationship will flourish if both the partners put in the effort. So, do not stop doing your bit to make your partner happy or make the relationship exciting. Also, never take each other for granted.
- Trying to figure it all out: This is the start to a beautiful journey of love and friendship, so do not freak out if you both haven’t figured out when to have kids, or how to take care of finances. It is good to begin planning kids and finances prior to marriage, so you do not have to rush through them after the marriage.
- Not expressing affection: Locking your love in your heart and expecting your partner to know about it is a quick way to sabotage the relationship. Never withhold love and affection after a fight; try to forgive and move on.
- Using sex to cover up: Physical intimacy will be exciting during the honeymoon phase, but that must not be used as an answer to everything. If you had a serious fight, then it is best to have an open conversation rather than skip it and get into bed.
- Lying to yourself: If you are saying yes to your partner and no to yourself, then you are heading into trouble. Never compromise on things which really matter to you. If you find your partner flirting with a coworker, do not ignore it and pretend your relationship is all rosy.
You must also watch out for disruptions in communication, signs of insecurity, or misaligned expectations. The six-month mark is crucial in a relationship as it lets you form a good first impression on your marriage. If you love each other, then with a little patience and thoughtfulness, you can create some lasting memories together in the initial months.
Ways To Celebrate Your Six-Month Anniversary
Whether you were confident of crossing this milestone with ease or are surprised and amazed that you made it this far, you have a reason to celebrate. So, keep reading for some lovely celebration ideas.
- Revisit your first date: Go to the same cafe or recreate that special moment that brought you together during your dating phase.
- Go on six dates: Treat yourself by going to six fancy restaurants, each a day on the final six days leading to your six-month anniversary.
- Get cooking: Team up and cook a 6-course meal to honor your achievements.
- Sitcom marathon: Fans of Big Bank Theory or Game Of Thrones? Set up a 6-hour marathon, cuddle, and enjoy.
- Plant a sapling: Plant a tree (probably a fruit-bearing one) and watch it continue to bloom along with your relationship.
- Plan a road trip: To mark the success of your companionship, plan a road trip of either six days or to cover six places.
Image: IStock
- ‘Your wish is my command’: Give each other six minutes of time in which you can ask each other anything, and the other person responds or complies (this is where things get funny or spicy).
- Relaxing with love: Book a 6-hour long spa package, relax with your loved one, and forget the world.
- Relive the first date: Get into the character, or swap your roles and recreate your first date.
- Try out sport: To make it even more special, take up some sport that is of interest to both of you.
- Half year anniversary photoshoot: Capture memories of completing six months of togetherness in a special way by planning a photoshoot. Select a venue in the lap of beautiful nature, a professional studio, or even your own home.
- Plan a romantic picnic: Select a place close to nature and that offers privacy. Take some fairy lights to set the right mood after sunset.
- Karaoke night: Sing along your favorite melodies. You may also invite some friends over to enjoy.
Celebrate your love together and create memories to cherish forever. Love is not always enough for a celebration. Sometimes, you need gifts and rewards too.
Six-Month Anniversary Gift Ideas
Image: IStock
Here are a few individual gifting ideas for a six-month wedding anniversary.
Gift Ideas For Him
- Create a love hamper- include a 3D greeting card, a message in a bottle, chocolates, a cute picture of you both, etc. fill the basket with gifts and of course your love.
- Order a cake- get his favorite cake, cut it together, and celebrate.
- Create a fridge magnet with a picture from your first date.
- Customize a coffee mug with the pictures of you and him.
- Gift him six shirts or t-shirts
Gift Ideas For Her
- Gift her six bouquets, each one on one day until the final day of your anniversary.
- Make a collage of six of your pictures.
- Buy matching pajamas sets and wear them with her.
- Give her a nice handbag and perfume.
- If she likes crafts, give her a crafts kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the six-month anniversary called?
A six-month anniversary can be called a semi-anniversary. It can be the first milestone in the relationship and calls for celebration.
2. Is six months a serious relationship?
Yes, being in a six-month relationship would indicate that you’re serious and committed to your partner and want the relationship to work sincerely.
3. What should I do for my six-month anniversary online?
You may celebrate your six-month anniversary online by posting your first picture together or your favorite photo with your partner, along with a sweet caption. You can also share a video of your favorite moments together on social media. If you’re in a long-distance relationship, you can plan a virtual date, watch a movie through shared screens, or play games.
4. How can I improve my relationship after six months?
As you hit the six-month mark, focus on nurturing the relationship with regular date nights and discussing your future goals. Continue to be open about your feelings and regularly check in with each other. Maintain your individual interests, but also make time to participate in fun activities together to keep your relationship exciting.
The first six months of a relationship are crucial as the phase is filled with newfound excitement and challenges. On the one hand, you both are head over heels for each other, enjoying each other’s company and exploring intimacy. On the other hand, you may notice some traits in your partner that may bother you. So during this period, take your time to understand each other and mutually work on your shortcomings for a strong relationship. Remember to make the most of this honeymoon period while building a strong connection based on trust, understanding, and love.
Infographic: Things That Happen In The First Six Months Of Marriage
Many people describe the first months of marriage as ‘magical.’ While there are plenty of sweet and tender moments, this time also brings many changes and surprises. Dive into our infographic below to explore the unexpected experiences you might encounter during your first six months as newlyweds!
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: Things That Happen In First 6 Months Of A Relationship
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
It takes six months for people’s issues to crop up when they’re in a relationship. Watch this video to learn why the first 3 to 6 months are so crucial.
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. Being married — first month.https://medium.com/illumination/being-married-first-month-cb516c8598c3
References
- Predicting Relationship Status and Satisfaction after Six Months among Dating Couples.
https://www.jstor.org/stable/353374 - Not Your Lucky Day: Romantically and Numerically Special Wedding Date Divorce Risks
https://melbourneinstitute.unimelb.edu.au/downloads/working_paper_series/wp2016n28.pdf - Communication, the Heart of a Relationship: Examining Capitalization, Accommodation, and Self-Construal on Relationship Satisfaction
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.767908/full
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