In this context, Sidoti interviewed Elham Saad, a family relationships expert, for practical tips on making an engagement period successful.
Why a Successful Engagement Matters
Elham Saad explains:
"An engagement is not just a superficial period of getting to know each other; it is a stage to determine your future. This period should foster mental and emotional closeness, not just romance. Focus on shared values and goals, avoid selfishness, and manage conflicts wisely. Success in the engagement period requires honesty, clarity, mutual respect, and realistic expectations. A strong engagement leads to a smooth transition into marriage without unnecessary problems."
Practical Tips for a Successful Engagement
1. Complete Honesty and Transparency
Build the engagement on truthfulness and open communication.
Avoid exaggeration or hiding details about finances, health, or personal habits.
Share expectations, values, and behaviors openly to prevent future conflicts.
2. Mutual Respect
Respect means accepting your partner as they are, without trying to change them radically.
Appreciate their feelings, opinions, personality, and boundaries.
Respect their time, commitments, and ambitions to build trust.
3. Understanding and Compromise
Tolerance for minor mistakes and shared compromises are essential.
Compromises should be mutual and reasonable, not sacrifices of principles or dignity.
4. Appearance Matters
Dress neatly, maintain hygiene, and ensure personal grooming.
A natural, comfortable appearance reflects genuine personality and consideration for your partner.
5. Active Listening
Pay full attention to your partner’s words and emotions.
Avoid distractions like phones and focus on understanding their needs and concerns.
6. Calm Conflict Resolution
Disagreements are natural; the key is resolving them without anger or avoidance.
Discuss issues calmly, find common ground, and avoid arguing when emotional.
7. Realistic Expectations
Avoid idealized or exaggerated romantic expectations.
Successful marriage depends on cooperation and adapting to reality, not fantasy.
8. Set Clear Boundaries
Agree on personal space, family interactions, and communication limits.
Maintain privacy and respect each other’s autonomy.
9. Keep Promises
Honoring commitments builds trust and strengthens respect.
Avoid false promises that can undermine the relationship.
10. Strengthen Family Ties
Foster respectful communication with each other’s families without getting involved in conflicts.
Support the relationship by expressing feelings and attention honestly.
11. Discuss Finances Openly
Talk about income, expenses, debts, savings habits, and financial responsibilities.
Transparency in money matters prevents future conflicts.
12. Maintain Personal Space
Respect individual hobbies and personal development.
Allow each partner time to recharge and grow, which renews energy in the relationship.
A successful engagement is more than a romantic period—it is a foundation for a stable, healthy, and fulfilling marriage. Focusing on honesty, respect, communication, and realistic expectations ensures both partners are prepared for the life ahead.
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