As a single man, how do you perceive marriage? While many assume that marriage guarantees lasting happiness after saying “I do,” the reality can differ. Before making a lifelong commitment, it’s a good idea to talk to married men you know and ask about their experiences, including any regrets they might have.
You may learn things you hadn’t considered. With 67.85% of men in the U.S. being married in 2022, according to Statista, there are plenty of people to gain insights from.
Alternatively, you could check out X (formerly known as Twitter), where a thread by user @FowobiofLagos prompted men from around the world to share their biggest regrets about marriage.
One respondent suggested, “Live with your partner for at least three years before considering marriage. Use that time to grow, learn to live together, and then decide.” Another view encouraged marrying early to face challenges with youthful energy and enjoy life more once your kids are grown.
Others offered different advice, such as observing how your mother-in-law treats her husband as a potential indicator of how your wife may treat you. However, one user noted that a mother-in-law might not always be a reliable gauge, advising to pay attention to your partner’s relationship with her father instead.
A particularly valuable comment suggested that many married men regret not prioritizing communication and emotional connection early in marriage. They recommended that single men focus on understanding their partner’s needs, maintaining their own interests, and building a foundation of trust and respect for a long-lasting relationship.
These insights were appreciated by readers, many of whom vowed to keep them in mind. Research from the American Institute for Boys and Men suggests that men generally experience greater happiness in marriage than women, possibly due to following advice like the comments above.
Meanwhile, New Jersey divorce lawyer Sara J. Corcoran recently shared on TikTok that the “number one mistake” men make in marriage is not helping with housework, which often leads to resentment and divorce. While some agreed with this, others weren’t as receptive, making it a point that might end up on the regret list too.