Rich, Successful, But… Healthy? What Science Says About Marrying The Right Person

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Everyone has different views on marriage and everyone who wants to marry has different views on the person they want to marry. For some, the right person is all about emotional qualities-care, security, affection, for some looks and personality matters and for others, it's about financial factors-wealth, status, and stability. And for many, it's a blend of all three. In the end, it's all about perspective; there's no right or wrong answer here.

Talking about the right person, according to a report that dates back to 2021, marrying one can actually make you richer and more successful. The only question arises if it can make you more healthy. Let's find out -

On Being Richer And More Successful

It turns out that who you partner with can make a big difference in your career and finances. Married adults not only earn more and build greater wealth than their single counterparts, but they also tend to spend less per person. Research shows that marriage can actually have a substantial financial edge. A U.S. 2021 Census Bureau report found that married adults earn more and have three times the net worth of singles, while a Bureau of Labor Statistics survey noted they spend $10,000 less per person.

But it's not just about being married; who you're with counts. A study from Washington University in St. Louis found that people with responsible, reliable partners are more likely to score promotions, make more money, and feel happier at work. Researchers also predict job satisfaction with "partner conscientiousness" - when one partner's good habits, like tackling household chores, influences the other person and helps in creating a smoother home life, allowing both partners to dedicate more time to their careers. That's when a good partner becomes more than a soulmate - they turn into a career and financial booster, too!

On Being Healthier

A study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that being in a romantic relationship can actually lead to less exercise, especially for activities like running or cycling. The researchers noted that when couples spend time together, they tend to prioritize activities like eating and watching TV over working out. Interestingly, when partners do their own thing, their exercise levels increase, suggesting it's the time spent together, not just being in a relationship, that impacts how much we move. So, while love might be in the air, it might also mean less time at the gym!

In Long Term Relationships

Here's another twist: a study published in Health Psychology found that after four years in a stable relationship, people tend to pack on the pounds more than what you'd expect from just getting older. Another study in Social Science & Medicine showed that people in long-term relationships are not only more likely to gain weight but also less likely to hit the gym. Interestingly, when relationships end, people often shed pounds and increase their workouts.

Long bike rides or intense runs don't exactly scream "couples time." The researchers suggest that feeling secure in a relationship can lead to less focus on fitness and healthy eating, as appearances take a back seat. This is why it's not just important to be in a relationship but underscores the need to choose your partner wisely, since staying active should be a priority rather than just an occasional consideration!

To sum it up, choosing a life partner shouldn't just be about their conscientiousness or healthy habits. Researchers from the University of Washington in St. Louis suggest that marrying someone overly conscientious could lead to a dull lifestyle. However, having a partner who is practical and health-conscious can boost your career and contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Instead of waiting for your partner to change, focus on being supportive-like managing finances or household chores. Prioritizing activities together, such as exercising or eating better, can also help. Ultimately, while choosing the right partner matters, being supportive and exemplifying desirable traits is key to a successful and emotionally fulfilling marriage.